The primary objective of maintaining defence capability is to prevent the use and even the threat of military force against Finland.

The objectives of the defence system are (a) to provide for military defence, (b) to support the public authorities and (c) to fulfil international obligations.

The defence system comprises command, intelligence and surveillance operations, readiness regulations and a logistics system. In addition, the defence system includes land, sea and air defence command structures and troops.

Finland’s defence policy and threat models, the tasks of the Finnish Defence Forces, the military capability requirements and available resources guide the development of the defence system.

The effectiveness of prevention depends on the deterrent effect. This is created through the preparedness and smooth functioning of society as a whole and all administrative branches. The armed forces, together with NATO, produce the military component of the restraint. The deterrent is defensive in nature. If prevention of the use of military force fails, attacks will, nevertheless, be repelled. The situation will be managed through active measures by concentrating resources to prevent the attacker from achieving his goals. Finland must be defended with the whole range of national resources, supported by NATO if necessary.