NATO CoE – Wireless Connectivity, Edge AI, Quantum Security

The City of Oulu has launched an initiative aimed at establishing a NATO Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Finland. The goal of the center is to significantly enhance military and defense capabilities through the development of dual-use technologies, while also creating opportunities to connect high-tech companies specializing in dual-use innovations more closely with the rapidly growing defense sector markets.

Finland, and especially Oulu, has emerged as a forward leaning location in wireless technologies defining and strongly contributing to the research and development of next generation’s wireless solutions. The innovations born in this northern hub are not only revolutionizing civilian connectivity but also reshaping military operations by enabling real-time communication, autonomous defense systems, and seamless data exchange with ruggered solutions and devices. With the dawn of the 6G era, the need for rapid technological advancements and the integration of dual-use applications has become more urgent than ever.

Key technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) hold immense potential, powering everything from autonomous weaponry to advanced cyber warfare systems. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in edge and quantum computing and cryptography are moving from theory to reality, enabling faster, more secure operations across both defense and industrial sectors.

The convergence of these cutting-edge technologies is creating unprecedented opportunities for Finnish SMEs and their innovations to play a pivotal role in the defense industry, bridging the gap between pioneering research and real-world applications across sectors.

The initiative

The City of Oulu has proposed to the Finnish government the establishment of a national NATO Centre of Excellence (CoE) and the nomination of Oulu’s proposal as a candidate. Based on this proposal, the NEXTGCOE would be established in Finland, focusing on dual-use technologies, particularly connectivity, distributed edge computing, and quantum encryption technologies.

The proposed Centre of Excellence will provide support in several areas, with a strong focus on facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge innovations from businesses to meet government and defense needs, while also opening new market opportunities for companies.

Technical and operational support will be provided by offering specialized assistance in key technology areas, enhancing skills and expertise to meet strategic defense objectives. Simultaneously, business and innovation development will focus on accelerating the commercialization of innovations from SMEs by organizing events that connect them with major defense sector players, expanding their access to new markets.

The Centre will also offer decision support to NATO bodies, helping shape strategic and operational decisions based on expert input. In addition, it will contribute to concept development, serving as a testing ground for innovative operational models, tactics, and procedures.

Training programs and exercises will be organized to sharpen the skills and readiness of member countries in specific technological areas. The Centre will drive research and analysis, working independently and in collaboration to develop new concepts and innovations, as well as analyze emerging threats to support NATO’s operations and enhance member countries’ defense capabilities.

By sharing lessons learned from operations and exercises, the Centre will promote best practices and contribute to the standardization of NATO procedures. Lastly, it will serve as a hub for networking and cooperation, strengthening ties between armed forces, civilian organizations, research institutions, and the private sector to foster deeper collaboration and innovation.

In the initiative, the City of Oulu is prepared to contribute to the costs of the proposal. Additionally, the proposal assumes that the state will cover expenses in line with the models of other member states. The operations of the Centre are designed in such a way that it will be able to cover a significant portion of its costs through service production and hosting compensation.

Background of the initiative

It is widely shared that developing dual-use technologies is the fastest and most efficient way to enhance the capabilities of the defense forces. Innovations are driven by dedicated SMEs. It is crucial to build on global-level strengths, and for Finland, these are connectivity, edge computing, and quantum development.

We have recognized the potential of the NATO DIANA initiative and aim to scale it for the benefit of all parties. The NATO DIANA accelerator in Finland focuses on new technologies, with the test centers in Oulu and Espoo specializing in connectivity and quantum technology. The Centre of Excellence (CoE) initiative is a broader framework that further opens opportunities for technology transfer on a larger scale.

Earlier this year, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham backed Finland’s potential as a hub for a NATO Centre of Excellence (CoE) focused on 6G, as well as edge and quantum computing. Later on then, more external supporting comments have been received. Oulu, with its powerhouse ICT cluster and expertise in dual-use technologies, stands at the forefront of this movement, ready to spearhead innovation on a local, national, and international scale.

Now is the moment for all stakeholders to rally behind this initiative and secure Finland’s place as a critical driver of technological breakthroughs by establishing the NATO CoE

NATO DIANA 6G Test centre | University of Oulu

Further reading

Helsingin Sanomat | 20.9.24
Teknikka & Talous | 19.9.24
Kaleva | 18.9.24 (behind paywall)
Helsingin Sanomat | 18.9.24 (behind paywall)

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