Dual-use technologies can bring more business to companies in Pirkanmaa – new development project launched

Text and photos: Petri Kangas / Business Tampere

Together with its partners, Business Tampere is building new channels, networks and opportunities for companies interested in the dual-use and defence sectors. Finland’s international reputation is strong, and the country attracts interest worldwide thanks to its focus on defence capability and security of supply. High-level research, such as quantum computing, is also among Finland’s key assets.

Mika Kulkas, Head of Defence at Business Tampere, presented the project “Dual-use technologies supporting security and defence” at the Impact Tampere event on Tuesday 28 October. The aim of the project is to create, develop and expand the Tampere City Region’s security, defence and dual-use network. The initiative strengthens cooperation, promotes growth and opens new international business opportunities. The term dual-use refers to technologies that can be applied in both civilian and military contexts.

The upcoming actions will increase the visibility and impact of companies in the Tampere Region within international networks. Developing, testing, adopting, commercialising and funding dual-use technologies play a key role in building a new innovation ecosystem.

According to Kulkas, the next step is to map the current situation and potential target markets. The goals include new innovations, market entries, investments and ecosystem development. The project, which began in September, will continue until early autumn 2028.

The purpose of the event was to offer an overview of current topics from a technological perspective, provide opportunities for networking, and share information about upcoming opportunities in dual-use, security and defence-related initiatives.

Jukka Anteroinen; — Commodore Jukka Anteroinen, Head of Planning, Defence Command Finland.

Markus Holmgren — Commodore Jukka Anteroinen, Head of Planning, Defence Command Finland.

A trusted and reputable partner

The event, which gathered an audience of around one hundred, was opened by Harri Ojala, CEO of Business Tampere. Ojala began by revisiting the region’s industrial history and its current role as a key part of Finland’s defence industry. From Tampella’s manufacturing legacy, the region has evolved into a hub for chip infrastructure, laser and quantum technologies.

“Our focus is to make the Tampere Region an ecosystem of technology and development that companies choose,” Ojala summarised.

The Tampere Region and Finland in general is home to a strong cluster of companies engaged in production and research relevant to dual-use applications. The space technology company ICEYE is gaining a fantastic reputation overseas. The VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, and several manufacturers of mobile work machines are operating in the area.

The programme featured several topical presentations. Researcher Markus Holmgren from the Finnish Institute of International Affairs and Aalto University discussed global technological power politics. Commodore Jukka Anteroinen from the Defence Command Finland spoke about the Defence Forces’ R&D activities. Jouni Flyktman, Director of Defence and Security Business at the Espoo-based quantum computing company IQM, gave a presentation titled “The impacts of the quantum era.“

The morning concluded with a panel discussion featuring Anteroinen, Holmgren and Kulkas, moderated by journalist Jaakko Loikkanen. The themes included technology, innovation and resilience – essential qualities in a changing world. The event took place at Technopolis Yliopistonrinne in the centre of Tampere.

The event was held at Technopolis Yliopistonrinne.

Pertti Aimonen; — The event was held at Technopolis Yliopistonrinne.

Jukka Anteroinen; Markus Holmgren; Mika Kulkas; — Panel discussion with Markus Holmgren, Mika Kulkas and Jukka Anteroinen, moderated by journalist Jaakko Loikkanen. Photo: Petri Kangas / Business Tampere

Finnish quantum computing punches above its weight

Jouni Flyktman from IQM praised Finland as one of the world’s leading countries in quantum computing. We’re punching above our weight, he says.

“Other key players include the United States, Canada, and in Europe, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom,” Flyktman listed.

Finland has a long-standing tradition in low-temperature physics dating back to the 1960s, Flyktman noted.

“Part of that tradition involves research on superconducting circuits – our expertise stems from there, and that level of know-how is hard to copy, even with a lot of money,” he added.

Finland’s new Quantum Technology Strategy, published in spring 2024 and extending to 2035, describes quantum technology as a driver of growth that promises unprecedented advances in computing power, communication security and sensor precision.

According to Flyktman, quantum computing enables solving complex computational problems significantly faster than high-performance computing – and with lower energy consumption. Quantum capabilities will form part of a nation’s strategic performance capacity. The strategy’s vision, goals and actions are structured around four pillars: competence, enablers, ecosystem growth, and geopolitics & security.

Formerly a commissioned officer with the rank of Engineer Major, Flyktman sees strong business potential in an early-stage market.

“It’s a rapidly developing field, connected to national security and Finland’s economic growth,” he said.

According to Flyktman, Finnish universities are already producing skilled natural scientists and IT-oriented graduates who find career opportunities in quantum companies outside academia. The strategy estimates that by 2035, quantum technology could employ up to 10,000 people in Finland, compared to just a few hundred today.

“In the future, universities could offer master’s or engineering degree programmes dedicated to quantum technology – without necessarily requiring a PhD,” Flyktman anticipated.

The event followed the Chatham House Rule. The published quotes and images were approved by the interviewees.