KONGSBERG Signs Landmark Contract with Norway for Supersonic Strike Missile Development.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has entered into a significant contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) to spearhead the initial development phase of the cutting-edge German-Norwegian Supersonic Strike Missile (3SM). This next-generation missile system is anticipated to be deployed on naval vessels by 2035.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Artist rendering of future Supersonic Strike Missile. (Picture source: Kongsberg)

The contract, valued at up to 1.5 billion NOK (Around €132 million), underscores the strategic importance of advanced missile technology in maintaining and enhancing defense capabilities. Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, “The 3SM missile project demonstrates how cross-border and industrial collaboration contributes to strengthening the defense capabilities of Norway, Germany, and allied countries. Close cooperation between industry, authorities, and research institutions forms the foundation for innovation and job creation, while we maintain our position as a world-leading missile manufacturer.”

KONGSBERG has been designated the lead industry partner in this ambitious project, which will also see substantial contributions from German and Norwegian industry partners, including Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland. Additionally, the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) and Nammo will play critical roles in the development process.

Gro Jære, Director of the NDMA, highlighted the historical context and future potential of Norway’s missile development expertise: "Norway has a long history of developing advanced missile systems, and it is important that we maintain and further develop the existing expertise and position that Norway holds within missile technology. Establishing Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace as a new contract partner and industry leader is a crucial step in developing a powerful new weapon system for engaging maritime targets. KONGSBERG has extensive and significant experience in this field.”

The Supersonic Strike Missile (3SM) is envisioned as a powerful new anti-ship weapon that will bolster sovereignty and territorial integrity by enhancing the deterrence capabilities of the armed forces and improving their ability to engage long-range targets. Designed for deployment on both Norwegian and German naval vessels, the 3SM is also being developed with the potential for use by other NATO countries and close allies.

KONGSBERG’s track record in missile development is well-established, with the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) developed in the 2000s now in use by 13 countries, including Norway, Germany, and the US. The new 3SM system will complement the NSM, providing a robust and versatile arsenal for modern naval warfare when it becomes operational in the mid-2030s.

This development marks a significant milestone in defense technology, reinforcing the strategic partnership between Norway and Germany and paving the way for future advancements in missile capabilities.