Finnish Air Force Honors 85th Anniversary of Battle of Bengtskär with Flyover
On Wednesday, 1 July, the Finnish Air Force will conduct a flyover of Bengtskär lighthouse to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Bengtskär. The flight is scheduled for 14:15 at an altitude of approximately 300 meters, though details may change due to weather conditions (Ilta-Sanomat, Iltalehti).
The Bengtskär lighthouse, located in the Archipelago Sea near Kemiönsaari, played a significant role during World War II. On 26 July 1941, the Soviet Union launched a surprise attack on the lighthouse, which the Finns used as an observation and fire direction post. The battle, which began in the early hours of the morning, ended the same evening with a Finnish victory (Iltalehti).
According to historical accounts, 32 Finnish soldiers were killed in the battle. Estimates of Soviet casualties vary, with some sources suggesting as many as 100 were killed (Iltalehti). The lighthouse is also known for its strategic importance during the Continuation War, as it served as a critical lookout point in the Turku archipelago (Ilta-Sanomat).
