Defence
The defence sector is undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by evolving security demands, digitalization, and the need for resilient, scalable solutions. With over 40 years of experience, Etteplan is a trusted engineering partner for both civil and government organizations. Below, we outline the key challenges, emerging trends, and our tailored solutions for defence industry.
Navigating Industry Challenges: Innovation, Safety, and Strategic Collaboration
In the defence industry, navigating complexity is not optional—it’s mission-critical. Defence organizations need to respond to evolving geopolitical pressures, stringent safety requirements, and rapid technological change. Innovation is no longer a luxury but a strategic imperative, enabling smarter systems, faster decision-making, and enhanced operational readiness.
At the same time, safety remains non-negotiable, demanding rigorous standards and resilient processes. Strategic collaboration—across borders, sectors, and disciplines—emerges as a key enabler, allowing defence stakeholders to share intelligence, co-develop solutions, and maintain a competitive edge. Together, these pillars form the foundation for sustainable success in one of the world’s most demanding industries.
Challenges
Accelerated delivery and increased volumes
Market demands shorter lead times and scalable production capabilities.
Rapid technological evolution
Access to advanced competencies and specialized skills in system development, safety, and ILS are critical.
Local vs. remote capacity
Efficient collaboration between local and remote teams is essential for efficient production scaling.
Compliance with safety and quality standards
Defence projects must comply with stringent international standards such as AS9100, AQAP2110, ISO 27001, and IEC 62443-4-1.
Key Trends Shaping the Future of Defence
Digitalization and automation: New ways of working are used to accelerate defence system development by making it faster, safer, and smarter from conventional products to autonomous platforms and unmanned systems.
Lifecycle-based product development: Framework that drives innovation, resilience, and mission success by integrating product support to ensure long-term readiness, reliability, and capability.
Safety-critical systems: Emphasis on system and functional safety, cybersecurity, and certification is growing across all domains.
- Digitalization and automation
- Lifecycle-based product development
- Safety-critical systems
Etteplan’s Solutions for Defence
Etteplan offers a comprehensive portfolio of services to meet the evolving needs of the industry:
Product Engineering
Mechanical, electrical, and automation engineering for products and platforms mainly in land and naval applications. Product development and customization from heavy steel structures to modern control systems. Extensive know-how from best in class manufacturing methods like additive manufacturing and composite structures.
Embedded Software & Hardware Development
Embedded Software & Hardware Development Intelligent systems for defence applications, including FPGA, sensor integration, and real-time platforms.
Engineering Analysis & Simulation (FEA, CFD, LCA & Sustainability)
Technical calculations for strength, vibrations, impact, thermal, fluid flow, electro magnetic and acoustic phenomena to ensure the equipment operability under harsh conditions over the whole life cycle.
Test & Verification
Test and verification in EN 17025 accredited labs in Sweden and Finland for Environmental Conditions & Reliability, EMC & RF testing and Product Safety test. Our testing services cover e.g. MIL-STD and various STANAG standards.
Technical Documentation (S1000D, ASD-STE100)
Interactive manuals, multilingual IETMs, and documentation management for complex systems.
Integrated Product Support (IPS) & Integrated Logistics Support (ILS)
Services including LSA, R&M, spare parts management, and training solutions.
Cybersecurity & Secure Product Development
Certified ISO 27001 and compliant to IEC 62443-4-1 to protect mission-critical systems.
System & Functional Safety
Safety assessments, certification support, development of functional safety software and related advisory services.
Etteplan has been committed to strengthening the defence and security sector for years. We believe that collaboration is essential for innovation and growth in this sector. Partnering with Etteplan gives defence organizations and suppliers access to deep technical expertise, proven methodologies, and customized solutions that meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and innovation. Together, we are building a solid foundation for the future of the industry.
Webinar Recap: Seize Opportunities in the Defense Sector
On June 5, 2025, Etteplan hosted an informative webinar on opportunities in the defense sector, themed "TechDoc in the Defense Sector: Ensure Compliance and Increase Your Profitability". During the webinar, key topics were discussed, including important standards and guidelines as S1000D and Simplified Technical English (STE), Integrated Product Support (IPS), and best practices for implementation.
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Sales Director Finland