Kongsberg signs development contract for Supersonic Strike Missile (3SM)
5 July 2024 – Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has today 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 vessels 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 1.5 billion NOK.
“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 job creation, while we maintain our position as a world-leading missile manufacturer,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.
KONGSBERG has been awarded the contract as the lead industry partner, with significant involvement from German and Norwegian industry. 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,” said Gro Jære, Director of the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA).
The new supersonic missile is a collaborative German-Norwegian development project, where Norway is the lead nation. The anti-ship missile will help safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity by enhancing armed forces’ deterrence capability and improving the ability to engage long-range targets. The missile system is intended for deployment on both Norwegian and German naval vessels. Additionally, it is being designed for potential use 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 US. When the 3SM is deployed in the mid-2030s, it will serve as a complementary system to the NSM.
File photo courtesy Kongsberg
