Nokia partners with NestAI to enhance AI-powered defense solutions
Nokia and NestAI established a strategic partnership to focus on AI-powered defense solutions. In conjunction with this collaboration, Nokia and Tesi (Finnish Industry Investment Ltd) committed to a €100 million investment in NestAI. This funding aims to support the development of next-generation Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies for unmanned vehicles, autonomous operations, and command and control platforms across sectors such as logistics, inspection, and security.
Connectivity holds strategic importance in defense, enhancing decision-making through AI capabilities. Nokia initiated a specialized defense incubation business unit to foster co-innovation with partners in the U.S., Finland, and allied nations, emphasizing the integration of AI-native technologies within defense frameworks.
The partnership seeks to combine Nokia’s secure, AI-native connectivity and multimedia expertise with NestAI’s developments in unmanned systems and AI platforms. The companies aim to advance AI capabilities in command and control systems, enhancing data-driven management in defense operations.
Justin Hotard, President and CEO of Nokia, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Our strategic partnership with NestAI is a testament to our commitment to innovation with partners. By combining Nokia’s expertise in secure advanced connectivity with NestAI’s pioneering platforms, we are accelerating the development of next-generation capabilities for defense and national safety.”
Peter Sarlin, Chairman of NestAI, underlined the significance of strategic partnerships for strengthening European security, noting that NestAI's mission includes delivering critical AI capabilities to reinforce Europe's autonomy and technological leadership.
Juha Lehtola, Head of Growth Investments at Tesi, remarked on the potential of NestAI as a technology partner in defense, reflecting on the alignment with Tesi’s strategy to support Finnish firms with strategic importance in essential sectors.