Kongsberg signs development contract for supersonic missile (3SM)

July 5, 2024 – Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) today signed a contract with the Norwegian Defence Material Agency (NDMA) for the first development phase of the new German-Norwegian Supersonic Strike Missile (3SM) missile system.

The supersonic missile is the next generation missile system to be deployed on future ships 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 know-how in missile technology. The contract value for the first development phase is up to NOK 1.5 billion.

“The 3SM missile project shows how cross-border and industrial cooperation contributes to strengthening the defence capabilities of Norway, Germany and allied countries. Close cooperation between industry, authorities and research institutions forms the basis for innovation and job creation, while at the same time maintaining our position as the world’s leading missile manufacturer,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.

KONGSBERG has been awarded the contract as the lead industrial partner, with significant participation from German and Norwegian industry. KONGSBERG, Diehl Defence and MBDA Germany have formed a partnership to carry out the development. The Norwegian Defence Research Institute (FFI) and Nammo will also contribute to the project.

“Norway has a long tradition in developing modern missile systems and it is important that we maintain and further develop the existing expertise and position that Norway has in missile technology. Establishing Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace as a new contractor and industry leader is a crucial step in the development of a powerful new weapon system to combat 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 joint German-Norwegian project, with Norway taking the lead. The anti-ship missile is intended to help preserve sovereignty and territorial integrity by increasing the deterrence capability of the armed forces and improving the ability to attack targets at great distances. The missile system is intended for use on Norwegian and German warships. In addition, it is being developed for possible 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 USA. When the 3SM is deployed in the mid-2030s, it will serve as a complementary system to the NSM.

File photo courtesy of Kongsberg