The UK and Ireland present exceptional opportunities for Finnish companies, particularly in the defence sector and the digital security of critical industries such as energy and telecommunications. Both nations greatly value the reliability, high quality, and technological expertise that Finnish companies bring, making it easier for them to establish and grow partnerships with local players.
Britain’s defence budget is the second largest in NATO, behind only the United States, and is set to grow in the coming years. This presents a wealth of opportunities for Finnish companies with expertise in areas like cyber security, space, digitalisation, IT technology, training and simulators and mobile technology. Additionally, there is significant potential for collaboration in innovation and research, offering a chance to shape the future of defence together.
The strategic partnership declaration between Finland and the UK, signed in May 2024, reinforces the strong foundation for bilateral cooperation. The UK’s defence industry is a powerful gateway to global markets.
Similarly, Finland enjoys excellent cooperation and political ties with Ireland. Ireland’s strength lies in the development of digital solutions for global markets. The country is currently undertaking a €16 billion energy infrastructure renewal project, creating demand for advanced security solutions.
On June 11, 2025, Finnish Ambassadors from the UK and Ireland will visit Oulu for an event focusing on defence and digital resilience. Europe's largest defence equipment company, BAE Systems, will be present at the event. Business Finland’s Defence and Digital Resilience program will also be presented during the event.
The event will be conducted in Finnish.
Agenda
- UK overview / Ambassador Jukka Siukosaari
- Ireland overview / Ambassador Leena Gardemeister
- Defence ja Digital Resilience program / Head of Digital Trust Finland Kirsi Kokko & Director Jukka Holappa, Business Finland
- BAE Systems, Collaboration opportunities with Europe's largest defense equipment company
Networking & coffees
The event will be moderated by Jussi Leponiemi from Business Oulu
