VTT and TNO expand their collaboration to meet the needs of national defence forces

In their memorandum of understanding, VTT and TNO recognise the need for closer cooperation in defence and dual-use technology due to the current geopolitical situation. As a result, the research organisations will jointly develop and implement concrete research projects meeting the needs of the Finnish and Dutch defence forces. The projects will continue decades of successful collaboration between VTT and TNO.

“Expanding our defence collaboration is a strategic move that supports the security and defence goals of both countries and strengthens Europe’s technological sovereignty. By working together, we can achieve more and benefit from each other’s expertise and resources,” says Sauli Eloranta, Vice President, Defence at VTT.

The first research areas chosen by VTT and TNO include drone solutions and counter-drone technologies, sensor technologies, underwater technologies, advanced materials and 6G technology.

TNO is the national, independent applied scientific research organisation of the Netherlands, established in 1932 and dedicated to promoting sustainable development and competitiveness through innovation.

“Our collaboration has already begun in practice at VTT’s Drone Test Centre in Oulu, Finland, with joint tests that would not have been possible in the Netherlands due to strict regulations. Additionally, Finland’s experience in a whole-of-society resilience approach provides valuable insights for our research,” says Louk Absil, Programme Director Defence, Safety & Security at TNO.