Colonel Jyri Kosola criticizes Finland's lack of a strategic approach to EU defense funding, which he believes results in poor returns on taxpayer investment.
In an interview with Politiikkaradio, Colonel (retired) Jyri Kosola, a former director of research for the Finnish Defence Forces, emphasized the need for a coherent strategy regarding the utilization of EU research and development funding for the military. Kosola argues that without a clear national directive guiding Finland's priorities and objectives in defense technology, the country is not achieving adequate returns on its investment in the European Defence Fund. He stresses that a strategic vision is crucial for aligning funding with Finland's economic sustainability and military capabilities.
Kosola identified a significant gap in Finland's national leadership regarding strategic sectors and critical technologies that should underpin its defense economy. He condemns the inconsistency in governmental priorities, pointing out that while robotics and artificial intelligence are acknowledged as vital areas, there are simultaneous decisions to reduce education in cognitive sciences. Such contradictory actions demonstrate a lack of coherence in developing the necessary expertise and technologies essential for strengthening Finland's defense posture.
He advocates for the forthcoming government to address these issues urgently, suggesting that a well-defined strategy that identifies Finland's strategic competencies and critical technologies must be established. Kosola believes that this approach is vital not only for effective utilization of the European defence budget but also for ensuring Finland remains competitive and secure in an increasingly volatile global security landscape.
