Espoo consolidates 100 dual-use tech companies into single Otaniemi defence hub
More than 100 Finnish companies working on both civilian and military technology are being consolidated into a single Otaniemi campus, as European security concerns drive fresh investment into dual-use innovation. The move brings satellite, quantum computing and drone firms alongside NATO’s regional innovation accelerator under one roof.
Martti Asikainen | 29.9.2026 | Photo by Espoo
The City of Espoo and Enter Espoo, the city’s business development agency, announced in August that Defence Tech Hub, a network of Finnish dual-use technology companies, is consolidating its operations into a unified ecosystem based primarily in Otaniemi, Espoo.
The hub now includes more than 100 companies developing technologies for both civilian and defence applications, according to the announcement. Dual-use technologies are those with both commercial and military applications, such as satellite imaging, drones and secure communications systems.
A roster of deep-tech firms
Defence Tech Hub connects startups, established companies and research institutions working across satellite and space technology, quantum computing, sensors, software, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and drones.
Member companies include ICEYE, a satellite radar imaging firm, quantum computing company IQM, and weather-technology firm Vaisala, alongside Kuva Space, Varjo, Elfys, ReOrbit, Tespack and Savox, according to the announcement.
Research organisations in the network include VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, which facilitates a test centre and accelerator for NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) programme in Otaniemi, alongside the Defence Innovation Network Finland (DEFINE).
Shared facilities in one location
The consolidation gives hub members access to shared infrastructure in Otaniemi, including security-classified facilities, cleanroom space and testing capabilities, provided through property company Technopolis.
“With all services and facilities within walking distance, the hub creates a highly connected environment where collaboration across the defence and security ecosystem becomes practical, efficient, and seamless,” said Niko Pulli, chief executive of Technopolis.
Jaana Tuomi, chief executive of Enter Espoo, said demand to join the hub had exceeded expectations since its launch in early 2025. “The growth and international interest surrounding the Defence Tech Hub have exceeded our expectations,” she said.
Framed as a response to European security shifts
City officials linked the expansion to broader changes in Europe’s security environment.
“Europe’s security environment has changed permanently, and our security now depends increasingly on technological capability, innovation and the ability to cooperate across sectors,” said Jarno Limnéll, chairperson of Espoo City Council and a member of the Finnish parliament.
Espoo Mayor Kai Mykkänen said the consolidation strengthens Finland’s position in dual-use technology development, describing Espoo as a leading European innovation community.
The city submitted more than 2,500 patent applications to the European Patent Office in 2025, ranking behind only Munich, Paris and Eindhoven among European cities, according to Enter Espoo.
