On April 23, 2025, ICT Oulu embarked on a Finland-tour, making a stop at the Drone Seminar in Mikkeli. This visit underscored Oulu’s commitment to the drone industry, highlighting the importance of staying abreast of the latest trends and technological innovations, but also building the connections between the players in the field.
Oulu’s Commitment to Drone Technology
Oulu is invested in the development of drone technology as part of its broader strategy for smart transportation and digitalization. This focus extends to using drones as essential tools for security and defense solutions. The region’s stakeholders view drone technology as a critical component of infrastructure and preparedness, supporting both civilian and defense sectors. Local institutions like Oulun ammattikorkeakoulu and Oulun yliopisto are actively researching drone applications in logistics, environmental monitoring, surveillance, and defense.
Oulu is open to partnerships with companies and other collaborators to leverage new testing platforms, such as the university’s 5/6G private network, OuluZone, Ruutikangas, and the new hospital’s private testing area. The goal is to develop highly capable drones manufactured in Finland for diverse uses, adding value at different stages of the supply chain.
Highlights from the Seminar
Ville Hyyryläinen Miksei Oy opened the seminar, setting the stage for a day filled with insights from both the public and private sectors, as well as educational institutions.
Janne Kinnunen, Mayor of Mikkeli, declared Mikkeli as the Capital of Comprehensive Security, emphasizing the city’s commitment to safety and security.
Jarmo Limnell from Parliament od Finland discussed the unprecedented focus on security, as it is currently the number one issue in parliament. He highlighted that the emphasis on security is expected to increase in the coming months and years, presenting significant opportunities. Limnell pointed out that humanity is developing technologies at an accelerating pace, and it is crucial to adapt these technologies to our everyday lives. He emphasized that technology can be used for both good and bad purposes, and it is essential to maintain a broad perspective. Rather than focusing solely on just one use-case, it is important to consider all technologies as a whole.
Limnell identified several near-future technologies that NATO is currently focusing on, including AI, new energy and power sources, new materials and manufacturing methods, quantum technology, space, hypersonic systems, new generation communication, and biotechnology.
The Finnish Drone Strategy, now established in parliament, outlines the importance of innovative and ecosystems with trust culture. The strategy aims to make Finland a leading country in drone development and business within five years, with a broader approach beyond military applications. Even though he admitted that currently the market focus is on defence and dual-use technologies.
Last he stated that Finnish companies and ecosystem members should be collaborating rather than competing, with the belief that together they can achieve global leadership in drones.
Teemu Moilanen, Chief Inspector of the Finnish Police, shared insights on the use of drones in police work.
At police the drones are used daily for documentation, search missions, situational awareness, and covert operations. Different categories of drones are employed based on weather conditions and specific needs.
Tomi Oravasaari Director of Research Unit at XAMK discussed the educational aspects of drones, highlighting the development of both unmanned and manned aircraft. Recent research has focused on electric aircraft and hydrogen conversion, which are seen as crucial for the future of the aviation industry.
Tero Vuorenmaa, founder and CEO of Innoavia, showcased innovative air services and future drone developments. He noted that while Finland’s drone ecosystem lags behind other Nordic countries, there are still opportunities for growth. Vuorenmaa emphasized the importance of following a national strategy and avoiding redundant efforts. He encouraged the use of Finnish drones and highlighted the potential of 5G technology.
Kimmo Rytkönen coordinator from Pelastusopisto spoke about the use of drones in firefighting and disaster management.
Pietari Sorri CEO of Nordic Drones (Patria Drones) emphasized that while drones are the vehicles, it is the cutting-edge technologies and their practical applications that truly add value. He pointed out that flight times are currently a limiting factor in drone operations. Sorri stressed the importance of focusing on practical development that addresses real needs rather than hypothetical use cases. He also noted that some drone manufacturers tend to overpromise, and he encouraged everyone to ensure that they deliver on their commitments.
Janne Ropponen Operations Manager from MAF (Mission Aviation Fellowship) Finland shared insights on MAF’s operations in remote areas, providing life-changing and life-sustaining help to the areas that are not accessible by land. MAF also plans to establish training facilities in Mikkeli using fully electric airplanes.
Ari Etelävuori team leader from Haga Helia issued a call to action, encouraging collaboration and innovation in the drone industry. He claimed that Finnish companies are not aiming high enough and are working too locally.
Tommi Malinen, Chief Sales Officer from Summa Defence, showcased their objective to develop and manufacture tactical air, land and sea drones and make the technology transfer from Ukraine. The production lines are meant to start operations this spring 2025.
Conclusion
The seminar highlighted the collaborative spirit and innovative drive within Finland’s drone industry, setting the stage for future advancements and partnerships. It was clear message from all speakers, that we can not succeed alone. If Finland aims to be the world leader in drone technology, we need to pull the rope together and aim high enough!