In this article, I reflect on the shared value base of Finnish companies operating in the defense industry. I also explain why we at Mectalent feel a growing desire to invest more heavily in the defense sector moving forward.
As a new member of NATO, Finland’s defense strategy is now based on a strong national defense capability rooted in conscription, which serves as part of the alliance’s deterrence and defense. Defense capability refers to the capacity for military defense and the Finnish Defence Forces’ ability to fulfill its statutory duties. Finland defends its society, territory, and population by utilizing all societal resources in cooperation with its allies.
The foundation of Finland’s defense lies in conscription, a broad and trained reserve, and a high level of national will to defend. At the heart of citizens’ will to defend is a sense of national unity and a belief that Finland is a country worth defending.
>> Read the blog: Finland’s operating environment has transformed as a NATO member
Maintaining a strong national will to defend is seen as critically important for Finland’s defense. On an individual level, this strong will can be experienced and sensed in conversations between people, in the general attitude toward the importance of defending Finland, during military refresher training, and at events organized by defense industry companies.
As citizens, we can be grateful for the prevailing strong will to defend in Finland. It is an important security matter that we nurture national unity, which in turn helps maintain a strong will to defend.
While Finland regularly measures its citizens’ willingness to defend the country, what about Finnish companies—do they share this will? Naturally, companies are typically measured by business metrics, but I argue that Finnish companies operating in the defense sector demonstrate a very strong will to defend.
Citizens’ belief in the importance of national defense translates—through individuals—into companies’ values, strategies, and operating models. A prime example of companies’ commitment to safeguarding operations in exceptional circumstances is Finland’s national security of supply organization, in which companies voluntarily participate to ensure the functioning and protection of society’s critical operations under any conditions.
Just a few years ago, investors might have been hesitant about companies involved in the arms industry. However, Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine has quickly shifted these attitudes. The February 14, 2024 article in Kauppakamarilehti titled “Can one invest responsibly in weapons?” explores this theme.
An interviewee in the article points out that from a responsible investing perspective, the greatest risk in the defense industry is the potential for products to end up in the wrong hands. However, some investors believe that defending European values and democracy requires a functioning defense and arms industry.
It is encouraging that this topic is now being addressed also by investors and that the general attitude is becoming more accepting—because, ultimately, this concerns the security of us all. Naturally, every company in the defense industry has a duty to act responsibly and to ensure that their products do not end up in the wrong hands.
>> Read the blog: Power balance shifting: a new era of defense in Europe
I feel that it is deeply meaningful to be involved in the defense industry through my work. Behind this feeling lies patriotism—a sense of the importance of defending our country and gratitude for living in a free and safe nation. I hope future generations will be able to experience the same.
It feels meaningful to contribute, even in a small way, to the overall system that creates security in our society. I believe many professionals working in the defense industry share this feeling. This is reflected, for example, in the fact that many want to work in companies within the defense sector.
On a broader level, I believe patriotism is the factor that unites domestic defense industry companies. The strong national will to defend among citizens directly carries over into companies, becoming a force that builds community and empowers people.
>> Read the blog: The Finnish concept for comprehensive security: A global benchmark
Mectalent’s main business areas are medical technology, defense industry, and new technologies. These sectors have much in common. The manufacturing of products involves extremely strict and demanding quality requirements. Technological innovations can be applied to both health and defense technologies. Additionally, both sectors are driven by the need to protect life and contribute to a sense of security within society.
Mectalent’s vision is to be a forerunner in the design and manufacturing of technically demanding products. We aim to be recognized as an innovative expert partner.
In line with our values, we want to make our customers’ lives easier, commit to set goals and continuous improvement, and care for our colleagues. That’s why it comes naturally for us to operate in sectors where technical expertise serves the overall well-being and security of society.
Mectalent aims for strong growth across all its business areas in the future, especially in the defense industry. We have worked in this field for over 20 years, but we believe demand for our expertise in product development and manufacturing complex equipment will continue to grow.
Moreover, we strongly feel that beyond business opportunities and goals, it is deeply meaningful and motivating for us to operate in sectors that contribute to societal stability and strengthen the public’s sense of security.
Aleksi Heikkilä
Defence Advisor
Mectalent Oy
Mectalent’s Defence Advisor Aleksi Heikkilä holds a Master’s degree in Military Sciences and has served in officer roles in the Finnish Defence Forces. In the business world, he has worked in security and the defense industry since 2015. Thanks to his career, Heikkilä has built an extensive network within defense industry companies, the Defence Forces, and Finland’s national emergency supply organization.
Sources used in this blog:
Government defence report, Ministry of Defence, Helsinki 2024
https://kauppakamarilehti.fi/voiko-aseisiin-sijoittaa-vastuullisesti/