MSPO 2023: KONGSBERG Secures $1.5 Billion NSM Defense Missiles Deal with Poland.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) from Norway has secured a contract from the Polish Ministry of National Defence, valued at approximately NOK 16 billion (equivalent to $1.49 billion USD). The deal involves the delivery of four NSM (Naval Strike Missile) Coastal Defence System (CDS) squadrons.
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Kongsberg from Norway displays a mockup of NSM Naval Strike Missile at the MSPO defense exhibition in Kielce, Poland. (Picture source Army Recognition)

Poland, having been the inaugural nation to adopt the NSM (Naval Strike Missile) CDS (Coastal Defence System) technology in 2008 and subsequently expanding with an additional squadron in 2014, continues to strengthen its defense ties with KONGSBERG. This latest contract signifies over a decade of successful collaboration between the two entities, with the new deliveries projected to extend into the 2030s.

Geir Håøy, President and CEO of KONGSBERG remarked, "This monumental contract, the largest in KONGSBERG's history, marks a pivotal moment in our 200-year legacy. Our enduring partnership with Poland is a testament to our commitment, especially in the evolving security landscape of Europe. This agreement not only reinforces Poland's dedication to bolstering its defense capabilities but also provides KONGSBERG with the assurance to further invest and expand our capacity to meet these demands."

Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, added, "The NSM coastal defense system is instrumental in fortifying nations' territorial and civilian defense. We are honored to aid Poland in enhancing such capabilities. The Polish Ministry of National Defence's resolve to procure more NSM CDS underscores their confidence in our state-of-the-art system."

The CDS will incorporate the NASAMS command and control with NSM control functionality. Notably, the Polish industry will play a pivotal role in the project, contributing to significant components such as the communication system, vehicles, and a portion of the command and control system. They will also be actively involved in system integration processes.

In addition to the system delivery, KONGSBERG will offer comprehensive training and technical support, inclusive of simulators, empowering Polish personnel to undertake maintenance services domestically.

The NSM is a cutting-edge naval strike missile, initially conceived by KONGSBERG for the Norwegian Navy. Recognized as a fifth-generation Strike Missile, it stands out as the world's premier naval strike missile. Its stealth architecture renders it nearly undetectable, while its advanced seeker system allows for Autonomous Target Recognition. The missile can be launched from a variety of platforms, both on land and at sea, and is currently either in use or being delivered to 12 nations globally.

The contract's fruition hinges on the approval of export financing, anticipated to be concluded in the coming weeks.

Defense News September 2023