Strengthening Defense Expertise at Business Tampere: Colonel (Retd) Mika Kulkas Appointed as Head of Defence
Credit: Petri Kangas, Business Tampere
Mika Kulkas has taken on the role of Head of Defence at Business Tampere as of early 2025. With a distinguished career in the Finnish Air Force, Kulkas most recently served as the Commander of the Air Operations Center in Tikkakoski and previously as the Commander of Satakunta Air Wing in Pirkkala. He transitioned to the reserve from the Finnish Defence Forces on December 31, 2024.
Mika Kulkas brings a wealth of experience in defense system development, operational duties, and international cooperation. He has been instrumental in advancing Finland’s air and missile defense capabilities and played a key role in the HX fighter program, which culminated in the selection of the F-35 multi-role fighter.
In his new position, Kulkas will focus on identifying new opportunities and enhancing the operational conditions, growth, and internationalization of the region’s defense industry.
“The defense industry cluster in Pirkanmaa is one of the leading in Finland. It is fantastic to have such a strong and versatile expert joining us to further develop the business outlook for the sector in our region. Mika brings first-hand insight and experience of the sector’s opportunities both in Finland and internationally,” says Harri Ojala, CEO of Business Tampere.
“I have had the opportunity to have a diverse and long career in the Finnish Air Force. Over the past 30 years, I have gained broad experience with the Defence Forces. While our operating environment has become more unstable and unpredictable, we can look to the future with confidence. Finland has taken good care of its defense capabilities, which are further strengthened by our NATO membership and the continuous development of our defense system. At the same time, these open new opportunities for our national defense industry. Pirkanmaa is a significant foundation for overall national defense. It is great to join the Business Tampere team to create new opportunities for the defense industry in our region,” says Kulkas.
For more information:
Business Tampere
Harri Ojala, CEO
+358 40 762 3784
harri.ojala@businesstampere.com