VR and the Finnish Defence Forces deepen cooperation to strengthen Finland’s security of supply

VR brings to the cooperation scheme their nation-wide railway expertise, extensive rolling stock and maintenance capabilities, and the ability to carry out demanding transport operations in different security situations. The agreement strengthens joint planning and coordination, paving the way for the long-term development of operational reliability.

“Our long-standing collaboration has been built on strong mutual trust and a shared commitment to continuously developing our operations over the long term. This partnership agreement further strengthens that foundation and provides an opportunity to enhance operational reliability and our joint performance. At the same time, it supports the development of rail transport capabilities in Finland that are vital for security of supply,” says Eljas Koistinen, Senior Vice President of Logistics at VR.

“Finland’s NATO membership has only added to the importance of military mobility. We must be able to move our forces and materiel, and enable the reception, movement and logistic support of allied forces in Finland. Functional rail transportation and close cooperation with VR play significant roles in our logistic scheme”, Chief of the Defence Forces Logistics Command, Major General Tero Ylitalo says.

Pieksämäki workshop strengthens the operational reliability of critical rail transport

In recent years, VR has made significant investments in the production facilities and equipment of its Pieksämäki workshop to meet the needs of customer projects, particularly in freight wagon manufacturing. The workshop manufactures heavy transport wagons for the Swedish and Norwegian Defence Forces and tank wagons and roundwood wagons for industrial customers. These investments strengthen Finland’s capability to secure critical rail transport in all situations.