The Ilmasotakoulu (Air Force Academy) in Tikkakoski, Finland, has been pioneering efforts to enhance the mental resilience of both professional soldiers and conscripts in wake of increasing psychological pressures from ongoing conflicts. The academy has developed a concept specifically tailored for exceptional circumstances that aims to solidify the psychological well-being of troops through peer support. This measure has begun to permeate all branches of the Finnish Air Force, and similar peer support models are planned to expand throughout the entire Finnish Defence Forces.

One of the noteworthy initiatives is the training of conscripts as support fighters, who are equipped to offer conversational aid to fellow conscripts struggling with the mental strain of military life or civilian concerns. This initiative reflects a growing recognition within the military community that mental health is as crucial as physical readiness, especially during periods of heightened stress brought on by wartime environments. Military chaplain Marko Haukkamäki emphasizes that the model is particularly relevant in times of crisis, where the need for dialogue and support significantly amplifies.

In the context of traditional military training, such mental support systems represent an evolving understanding of soldiers' needs, signifying a cultural shift within Finnish Armed Forces towards prioritizing mental health. As these initiatives are adopted more broadly, they not only aim to alleviate immediate psychological burdens but also foster a more supportive environment for all service members, contributing to overall operational effectiveness and personal well-being in challenging situations.