The Finnish defense during the early stages of the Winter War was characterized by the unexpected success against Soviet forces, primarily due to the effective use of machine guns.
During the initial phases of the Winter War, Finnish Commander C.G.E. Mannerheim expressed concerns about the morale of Finnish troops, suggesting they were retreating rather than fighting back. At the same time, the Soviet army was advancing strongly from the Karelian Isthmus to Petsamo. However, all that changed on December 12, 1939, when a stunning report emerged: Soviet attacking forces had been defeated in the area around Tolvajärvi. This unexpected victory was largely attributed to the effective use of machine guns and skilled soldiers, which played a crucial role in the success of the Finnish offensive.
The significance of machine guns in this conflict is further explored in a new book by military historian Simo Liikanen titled "Jalkaväen viikate – konekivääri Suomen sodissa 1918–1945," which delves into how a single technological innovation can dramatically impact warfare. Throughout the book, Liikanen examines pivotal moments, such as the legendary battle of Tolvajärvi, to illustrate the theme of innovation in military strategy and its effectiveness in combat.
As Finnish troops prepared to engage the Soviet forces in open terrain during this critical moment in December, they harnessed the power of their machine guns to turn the tide against what was perceived to be a superior enemy. This event not only defined the early legend of the Winter War but also set the stage for future engagements throughout the conflict, highlighting the importance of technology in modern warfare and the adaptive strategies that nations employ in desperate situations.
