Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has signed a contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) for the initial development phase of the new German-Norwegian missile system Supersonic Strike Missile (3SM).
The Supersonic Strike Missile is the next-generation missile system, set to be deployed on future surface platforms from 2035. KONGSBERG and Norway have a long history of developing advanced missile systems, and the new system will help maintain and further develop existing expertise within missile technology. The contract value for the first development phase is up to NOK 1.5 billion (USD 142 million).
“The 3SM missile project demonstrates how cross-border and industrial collaboration contributes to strengthening the defence capabilities of Norway, Germany and allied countries. Close cooperation between industry, authorities, and research institutions forms the foundation for innovation and new workplaces, while we maintain our position as a world-leading missile manufacturer,” says Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.
KONGSBERG has been awarded the contract as the industry leader and partner, with significant involvement from German and Norwegian subcontractors. KONGSBERG, Diehl Defence, and MBDA Deutschland have formed a partnership to carry out the development. The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) and Nammo will also contribute to the project.
“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,” says Gro Jære, Director of the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA).
The new supersonic missile is a joint development project between Germany and Norway, with Norway taking the lead. This anti-ship missile is intended to enhance deterrence capability by protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity and improving the ability to engage long-range targets. The missile system will be deployed on Norwegian and German naval vessels and may potentially be used by other NATO countries and close allies.
KONGSBERG and Norway developed the Naval Strike Missile (NSM) in the 2000s. This missile system has been adopted by 13 countries, including Norway, Germany, and the USA. When the 3SM is deployed in the mid-2030s, it will serve as a complement to the NSM.
