The security environment does not bode well for stability. One crisis and disruption after another, and sometimes overlapping with each other, make events difficult to predict.
The security and safety of Finland and of the Finnish people always come first.
Our ability to act in disruptions and emergency conditions is at the core of what we do. We operate within the confines of the law and even in quickly evolving situations our decision-making is first and foremost based on facts and on the best possible estimate. There are situations, when we cannot wait for the perfect operational picture. If needed, we can make quick decisions and act.
We look at situations calmly and analytically also when the amount of data, conflicting information and the speed of events increase the uncertainty and pressure. For security reasons, we cannot publicly tell how we exactly do things, but we strive to openly communicate about those aspects that do not endanger the execution of our mission.
Lately, our activity has been coloured by exceptional events, by strayed drones for example. When situations evolve quickly, it is important that the foundations of our defence are stable. In addition to our daily work, our credibility is also measured by how quickly we adapt to new situations and what choices we make.
I respect the tenacity with which you work in rapidly changing situations and time frames. I am proud of the professionalism shown by our personnel during the recent incidents. I also wish to highlight the importance of a trained reserve. With the help of our reservists, our defence can respond to the changing nature of extended disturbances and crises. This is about our everyday readiness.
We make choices to find the correct balance. We maintain the readiness required by our operating environment, advance our NATO integration as planned, modernise our defence and develop the new capabilities required by the changing battlefield. The map does not change, and not everything old vanishes.
However, at the same time the changing operating environment requires that we make decisions and change focus faster than in more peaceful times. We will accelerate the construction of certain capabilities that are currently being built alongside the significant capability projects. We will reallocate funding for our investment programme and direct more personnel resources to the construction of new capabilities.
Often things happen faster than any planning process. That is when we need each other. When you have the will and the skills, the friction of change or uncertainty or a foggy future will not paralyze you. We work together with our allies and partners. Together, we are stronger.
I wish to thank our personnel, reservists and conscripts for your service and for the work you do for the security of Finland and its people. We are the Finnish Defence Forces.
Finally, allow me to congratulate those who have received awards or promotions today and wish all Finns a good Flag Day of the Finnish Defence Forces.
