The Norwegian government has taken a significant step to bolster its air defence capabilities with a new order of NASAMS components from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG). Valued at approximately NOK 1 billion, this contract underscores Norway’s commitment to modernising its defence infrastructure to counter evolving aerial threats.
Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik emphasised the strategic importance of this acquisition: “The government is prioritising strengthening our air defence. This agreement is an important step in ensuring increased response capacity and protection of Norwegian forces and critical infrastructure.”
The National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), originally developed by KONGSBERG and Raytheon in the 1990s, has become a cornerstone of Norway’s defence strategy. Today, 13 nations operate NASAMS, a testament to its reliability and effectiveness. This latest order will equip Norway with the most advanced generation of the system, designed to address current and future security challenges.
Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, highlighted the system’s critical role: “The NASAMS air defence system is strategically important for Norway’s defence capabilities and is vital for safeguarding our national security interests. This delivery will provide Norway with the latest generation of NASAMS, developed to meet current and future threats.”
The new contract includes upgrades to command posts, wheeled communication nodes, and radios. Notably, the existing MRR radios will be replaced with KONGSBERG’s THOR Combat Net Radio, offering enhanced capacity and functionality. These improvements will increase mobility, enable faster decision-making, and improve survivability for air defence batteries.
Director Gro Jære of the Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) explained the operational benefits: “With this acquisition, we ensure that the NASAMS departments receive flexible and modern command posts and communication systems that provide faster decision support, higher tempo and increased survivability.”
Additionally, Norway has ordered long-lead-time components to expedite future NASAMS deployments, aligning with the Long-Term Plan for the Defence Sector. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Norway remains at the forefront of air defence technology, capable of responding swiftly to emerging threats.
The move reflects a broader trend in European defence modernisation, where nations are investing heavily in advanced air defence systems to counter sophisticated aerial threats. As geopolitical tensions persist, Norway’s decision to strengthen its NASAMS capabilities serves as a model for other NATO allies grappling with similar security challenges.
By enhancing its air defence infrastructure, Norway is not only safeguarding its sovereignty but also reinforcing its role as a key contributor to regional and global security. The NASAMS upgrade represents a strategic investment in both technology and operational readiness, ensuring that Norwegian forces remain prepared for the complexities of modern warfare.