President Stubb's 'Top Gun' Fighter Jet Video Draws Comparison to Past Political Stunts

Finnish President Alexander Stubb recently released a social media video featuring him in the cockpit of a Hornet fighter jet, complete with dramatic camera angles and sunglasses, evoking the style of the movie "Top Gun." The footage was captured during a visit to the Lapland Air Command, where Stubb familiarized himself with the aircraft, including in flight.

Media researcher Anu Koivunen noted the video's polished production, comparing it to similar instances involving other politicians. She recalled Elisabeth Rehn, who flew in a Hornet as defense minister in 1992, a significant media event at the time. Koivunen also mentioned a recent video of Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson flying a Gripen fighter jet, which she described as less produced and lacking music.

Koivunen suggested that politicians use such videos, especially in uncertain times, to project an image of robust national defense. Stubb, as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, is particularly positioned to create such a "commander-in-chief video." The "cinematic dimension" achieved through editing and music, she explained, connects with international imagery, unlike more distinctly Finnish symbols like cross-country skiing. Koivunen views Stubb's "Top Gun"-style video as a continuation of a trend, referencing a previous campaign where Stubb promoted fitness for conscription, which also blended playfulness with a serious recruitment message.

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Poliitikot pyrkivät Koivusen mukaan tässä epävarmassa ajassa muun muassa luomaan tunnetta siitä, että puolustus on kunnossa.”Stubb on tietysti puolustusvoimien ylipäällikkö. Tämä oli tällainen ylipäällikkövideo.”