Puolustusstrategia

Puolustusstrategia, also known as defense strategy, is a government's plan and framework for using military and civil resources to ensure national security, deter aggression, and respond to various security threats. It defines how a state intends to achieve its security goals, balancing ends, ways, and means, and it is typically articulated in official documents such as defense white papers or national security strategies. The strategy guides decisions on force posture, modernization, mobilization, and international cooperation and is closely linked to foreign policy and overall security planning.

A defense strategy usually encompasses several core components. Threat assessment and risk analysis identify potential adversaries, geographic focus, and plausible scenarios. Strategic concepts outline the preferred way of operating, including deterrence, territorial defense, crisis management, and expeditionary or cooperative capabilities. Means cover the required resources, such as personnel, equipment, research and development, and budgeting. The strategy also addresses non-military aspects, including civil defense, resilience, cyber and space defense, and continuity of government during crises. Additionally, it considers alliances, partnerships, and international obligations as force multipliers.

The development and execution of a defense strategy typically involve multiple actors, including the defense ministry, other government agencies, parliament, and the armed forces. It is reviewed and updated to reflect evolving threats, technology, and geopolitical conditions. While the specifics vary by country, most defense strategies aim to deter aggression, protect critical interests, ensure territorial integrity, and enable effective responses to crises while maintaining balanced and sustainable defense postures.