Tampere strengthens position as a leading defence and dual-use technology hub
Credit: Petri Kangas, Business Tampere Oy
TAMPERE, Finland – The Tampere region is emerging as one of Finland’s leading hubs for defence and dual-use technologies, according to Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen, following a visit to local companies and stakeholders.
Speaking during a meeting hosted by Business Tampere, Häkkänen highlighted the region’s strong capabilities and growing international relevance.
“Without exaggeration, Tampere is among the very best in Finland when it comes to defence technology,” Häkkänen said.
International growth and Ukraine cooperation driving development
The minister noted that Finnish companies are increasingly expanding internationally, with Ukraine representing a key cooperation market.
“If Ukrainians are satisfied, the product definitely works. Finnish technology is trusted, and companies should be able to offer the full value chain — from prototypes to finished solutions,” he added.
Ukrainian companies entering Tampere ecosystem
Business Tampere CEO Harri Ojala emphasised that defence and security are among the region’s strategic priorities. He also confirmed that Ukrainian companies have already begun establishing operations in Tampere.
One example is Sine Engineering, which develops communication and positioning technologies for drones operating in electronically contested environments.
“We value the expertise and new approaches these companies bring. Through our international networks and events, companies can access global opportunities via Tampere,” Ojala said.
Strong industrial base and talent availability
The region’s growth is supported by both established companies and a strong talent pool.
Pirkkala-based FYC, a manufacturer of composite protection solutions for defence and security applications, reported positive market momentum.
CEO Sanna Aho highlighted the availability of skilled workforce in the Pirkanmaa region as a key competitive advantage.
Academic ecosystem supports emerging technologies
Tampere’s higher education institutions are also playing a central role in strengthening the ecosystem.
Tampere University President Keijo Hämäläinen noted that the region is well positioned to build a broader competence cluster across multiple high-tech fields.
“We see strong potential in semiconductors, photonics, mobile machinery and the space economy. Many technologies are advancing rapidly in the current global situation,” Hämäläinen said.
Connectivity and industrial relevance
The continued growth of defence and dual-use industries reinforces Tampere’s role as a strategic industrial and innovation hub in Finland. The sector’s international orientation and collaboration needs also highlight the importance of efficient connectivity to support business travel, partnerships and supply chains.
More information:
Harri Ojala
CEO, Chief Executive Officer
harri.ojala@businesstampere.com
Mika Kulkas
Head of Defence
mika.kulkas@businesstampere.com
Markku Niemi
Director, Smart City