Elina Andersson: The role of Finland’s maritime technology industry in securing national resilience
The security environment in the Baltic Sea region has changed significantly in recent years, and Finland’s geographical position imposes unique demands on its maritime capabilities. With approximately 96% of Finland’s imports and exports dependent on shipping, the nation’s economy and security of supply are heavily reliant on maritime transport through the Baltic Sea. The security of supply includes ensuring the continuity of essential goods and services, such as food, energy, transportation, health services, and military needs. Finland’s ability to maintain uninterrupted access to these is closely linked to its maritime infrastructure.
Finland’s long-term preparedness efforts, through collaboration between authorities and businesses, strengthen the nation’s resilience. The National Emergency Supply Agency’s Maritime Transport Pool supports maritime transport continuity, assisting critical companies with risk management and business continuity training. Finland’s maritime technology industry is vital in ensuring the expertise and technological innovations needed for efficient maritime operations.
The Baltic Sea’s year-round navigability is essential for trade and defense, and Finland’s expertise in icebreaking technology is globally recognized. Finnish shipyards have designed 80% of the world’s icebreakers, ensuring access to critical shipping lanes in winter. Icebreakers are central to Finland’s economic stability and supply chain resilience. In addition, Finnish marine companies provide advanced systems and solutions for ensuring vessel safety in harsh conditions.
Environmental risks in the Baltic Sea, such as oil spills, further underline the importance of rapid maritime response capabilities. Finland’s archipelago and coastline are ecologically valuable, requiring robust measures to prevent environmental damage. The maritime technology industry plays a crucial role in this regard, providing the ships, equipment and expertise needed to mitigate such risks.
Finland’s maritime technology sector also strengthens national defense. Finnish shipbuilders collaborate with defense forces to enhance maritime readiness by developing naval vessels and advanced systems. For instance, the Squadron 2020 project will replace decommissioned vessels with modern corvettes, providing crucial naval defense. Similarly, the Finnish Border Guard is enhancing its capabilities with two new multi-purpose patrol vessels equipped with advanced spill response systems.
Cybersecurity is increasingly important as the maritime sector becomes more digitized. Finnish companies lead in developing secure systems to protect critical maritime infrastructure, mitigating emerging cyber threats. Additionally, Finnish maritime cluster is advancing environmental sustainability by investing in green technologies, designing energy-efficient vessels, and retrofitting ships with low-emission solutions, which reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels and strengthens energy security.
Maritime know-how is a critical factor in resilience, and many countries are increasing investments in this sector. European maritime industry plays a significant role in ensuring Europe’s economic and strategic security, supporting both internal and external trade. Loss of shipbuilding capacity would undermine Europe’s economic security and defense. Finland, along with Europe, must maintain and invest in maritime expertise and infrastructure to ensure a well-functioning industry.
The maritime sector’s resilience is also dependent on a robust supply chain for critical assets. Domestic production of advanced maritime equipment and investment in shipbuilding capacity are necessary to maintain national and regional resilience. The ongoing global crises, such as the war in Ukraine, emphasize the need to secure supply chains and critical infrastructure. Finnish shipyards and marine manufacturers are vital in sustaining the production and maintenance of essential vessels, while digital tools enhance operational resilience through remote monitoring.
In conclusion, Finland’s maritime technology industry is a cornerstone of national resilience. By providing essential ships, systems, and expertise, the sector supports Finland’s security of supply, economic stability, environmental sustainability, and national defense. As global challenges evolve, Finland’s maritime technology industry will remain crucial in securing the nation’s resilience and its role in regional and global stability.
Elina Andersson
Secretary General
Finnish Marine Industries