The Journey of Success in Finnish Defence Projects

This study investigates the critical success factors influencing the success of defence equipment projects within the Finnish Defence Forces over a three-decade period from 2006 to 2025. Utilizing a longitudinal research design, the study captures changes in success factors in response to evolving organizational and environmental contexts. The research is grounded in a literature review on project success and success factors, with particular focus on defence industry. The main research question of this study is: How have the critical success factors of Finnish defense equipment projects changed from 2006 to 2025? By comparing empirical data from three case studies conducted in 2006, 2018 and 2025, the study offers insights into the constancy and transformation of critical success factors over time. This study contributes to the literature by providing a nuanced understanding of success factors in defence procurement projects, differentiating them from industry delivery projects. It highlights the unique challenges faced by procurement-focused projects and provides actionable insights for practitioners aiming to optimize project performance in the defence sector. The research calls for enhanced project management education and training within the Finnish Defence Forces to address the dual challenges of increasing demands and rising equipment costs.