Jyri Kosola: Finnish Defence Technology Needs a Bold Change of Course
Defence technology is entering a new era. Old ways are no longer sufficient to meet the security challenges of today. According to Colonel (Ret.) Jyri Kosola, former Director of Research at the Finnish Defence Forces, Finland must recognize its strengths and take a proactive role on the global stage.
The accelerating pace of technological development, evolving threats, and international cooperation all demand fresh thinking and the courage to make strategic choices.
“Defence technology is not just a matter for the military. It is a critical investment for the security of society and the national economy as a whole,” Kosola emphasizes.
According to Jyri Kosola, Finland has expertise in defence technology that is in demand worldwide.
From Old Habits to Adaptive Cooperation
Kosola criticizes the traditional partnership model, where the Defence Forces’ role has been limited to procurement and industry’s role to maintenance. The war in Ukraine has shown that the lifecycle of defence technology has shortened dramatically. Kosola argues that future defence procurements will require far closer and more reciprocal cooperation between the military and industry.
“The idea that you can buy a product and be satisfied with it for 15 years is outdated. Today, countermeasures evolve within months, and industry must be involved in learning and updating defence systems in real time,” Kosola notes.
One of the biggest obstacles, according to him, is the “chicken or the egg phenomenon”. The defence industry produces only what the Defence Forces order, while the Defence Forces order only what is already in the catalog. This prevents radical innovation.
“We need the courage to think outside the box. Not just improving existing technology, but creating entirely new concepts,” Kosola stresses.
Finnish Arctic Expertise in High Demand
Kosola points out that Finnish companies possess unique know-how that is not always fully appreciated domestically. Arctic conditions – such as low temperatures, limited satellite visibility, and the effects of the magnetic North Pole – create requirements that Finns are accustomed to tackling.
“If a system works in Finland, it will work anywhere,” Kosola sums up.
In addition, Finland has strong expertise in artificial intelligence, sensors, and radio technology. This is partly thanks to Nokia’s legacy. Our history provides a solid competence base and opportunities to develop critical components for global systems.
From an international perspective, Kosola argues that Finland must make strategic choices and focus on its strengths.
“We cannot afford to develop everything. Instead, we should produce critical elements for larger systems in cooperation with our allies,” he states.
In spring 2025, Jyri Kosola began working with Huld to help develop Huld’s defence industry business. He also serves as CEO of Pathfinder Solutions Oy.