Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services has entered into a contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to oversee the maintenance and future upgrade needs of the Norwegian F-35 fighter aircraft in Norway.
At the newly established facility, Kongsberg will collaborate closely with the Royal Norwegian Air Force to perform maintenance, upgrades, modifications, and enhancements on the aircraft. This agreement enables Kongsberg to enhance the global sustainment solution while bolstering national expertise and improving the operational readiness of the Norwegian F-35 fleet. The agreement is set to last for a period of up to 15 years.
“The establishment of a new maintenance depot in Norway will help retain the expertise and capacity that has been built up over several decades to carry out maintenance and upgrades of Norwegian fighter aircraft in line with the Armed Forces’ needs and priorities,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, which owns 50.1 per cent of Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services.
“The agreement also strengthens KONGSBERG’s position as a provider of maintenance services within the defence sector, in line with Norway’s ambition to enhance national capabilities and preparedness. At the same time, we are helping to maintain a capacity that is expected to serve Norway for more than 40 years,” said Lie.
Kongsberg has previously set up an engine depot dedicated to the maintenance and enhancement of F-135 engines for the aircraft. The new facility will span approximately 5,000 square meters. With both depots operational, Kongsberg will employ over 200 individuals at Rygge, Norway.
Until now, intermediate-level maintenance for Norwegian F-35s has been conducted in Cameri, Italy. The creation of a national maintenance facility at Rygge enables Norway to independently perform this work locally, thereby bolstering supply chains and enhancing operational readiness for the Royal Norwegian Air Force.
Director General of the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, Gro Jære, stated: “This is a milestone for Norway’s defence capability. With this facility, we gain increased flexibility and a more robust support structure for the Royal Norwegian Air Force, while also strengthening national expertise and the defence industry.”
