Finland investigates drone probably identified as Russian Geoscan 701

Finland’s Border Guard has opened an investigation into a drone found Tuesday on rocks in the Pellinki archipelago near Porvoo. The inquiry will examine where, when and how the unmanned aircraft entered Finnish territory, including the point and manner of any possible border crossing.

A preliminary external inspection indicates that the aircraft may be a Geoscan 701, a Russian-made drone used for mapping and surveillance, according to its manufacturer. Investigators believe water probably carried it to the shore. The drone was found close to the waterline and showed signs of moisture damage.

The Border Guard says both state and civilian operators use the model. It has not established the drone’s purpose, the country using it or the organization behind it. Investigator Antti Leskelä of the Gulf of Finland Coast Guard says the possibility of state use was important in deciding to begin a preliminary investigation because it raises the possibility of a territorial violation.

The manufacturer lists the drone’s wingspan as 3.33 meters, its maximum range as 1,000 kilometers and its longest possible flight time as 10 hours. The Border Guard is continuing the inquiry with other authorities and says it will not disclose more details about the device or other possible observations while the investigation is secured.

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There is a possibility that the device caused a territorial violation when it arrived here.