Janne Jaakkola

Janne Alpertti Jaakkola (born 17 July 1967 in Vehmaa) is a Finnish general, appointed to serve as the Chief of Defence and commander of the Finnish Defence Forces from 1 April 2024.

Jaakkola was first commissioned in 1990, and was promoted to captain in 1994, major in 2000, colonel in 2014, brigadier general in 2017, and a full general in 2024.

He is a graduate of Finland's National Defence University, where he finished at the top of his class, with the most senior Cadet rank of Kadettivääpeli. He subsequently completed general staff officer courses there as well as at the Norwegian Defence University College.

His previous posts have included as Aide de Camp to the then Chief of Defence, Admiral Juhani Kaskeala, Battalion Commander at the Utti Jaeger Regiment (2007–2010), Chief of Staff of Pori Brigade (2013–2015), and Chief of Planning (2021–2022); his most recent role before ascending to the Chief of Defence role was as Deputy Chief of Staff, Strategy (2023–2024).

Jaakkola is married to Marjo Hiltunen, with one child. Alongside his military duties he manages the family farm near Turku. His hobbies include Brazilian jiu-jitsu, karate, as well as Krav Maga, in which he is a qualified trainer and holds a 2nd dan.