The Norwegian Government strengthens Norway’s air defence by ordering new NASAMS air defence systems from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. It pledges to be committed to NATO’s 2 percent guideline in its defence budget.
The Norwegian government is set to bolster its air defense capabilities with new investments in NASAMS (National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System) air defense systems from the domestic supplier Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. This initiative will replace systems donated to Ukraine and includes acquiring eight launcher units, four fire control centers, and an array of new missiles with varying ranges, sourced from Raytheon in the U.S. These steps require approval from the Norwegian parliament.
Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, highlighted this as an example of the enduring collaboration between the Norwegian military, government, research entities, and the private sector, emphasizing the role of such initiatives in enhancing NASAMS’ development. Kongsberg has been proactive in increasing production capacity and fostering strong relationships with a network of Norwegian and international suppliers, ensuring NASAMS remains competitive on a global scale.
Towards two percent
The Norwegian government proposes a defence budget of 7,7 billion EUR, which is a nominal increase of 1,27 billion compared to the approved budget for 2023. Adjusted for inflation, compensations, technical changes and increased income, the budget increases by 0,92 billion EUR.
”We are the first Norwegian Government to commit to NATO’s 2 percent guideline. Our budget proposal for 2024 puts us ahead of the plan to reach two percent of our GDP in 2026,” said Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram, commenting the 2024 budget.
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Norway plans to purchase NASAMS air defence and new missiles
A Strong Defence Budget for Demanding Times
