It literally means "the highest" and has originally been a rank for regiment commanders.

In Finland, brigades are also commanded by holders of this rank.

Colonels (eversti) have usually fulfilled roles similar to Brigadier General in other armies.

In most large military installations such as training brigades, the commander is a Colonel, and several officers of the General Staff, such as inspectors of services, are also Colonels.

Promotion to colonel requires graduation from a general staff officer course (80 study credits).