Norwegian Armed Forces to Modernize Fleet with New Vessels
The Norwegian Defence Material Agency (NDMA) has awarded a significant contract to Salt Ship Design and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) to create the concept and technical design for a new class of standardized vessels. This collaboration is set to lay the groundwork for a shipbuilding competition that will kick off later this year. The initiative aims to streamline the Norwegian Navy’s fleet by replacing over ten existing vessel classes with a unified design.
Contract Award and Design Development
After a thorough evaluation of proposals from three suppliers, the NDMA selected Salt and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace as the most qualified team. The selection process involved 11 design houses, with six advancing to the final stage. The NDMA assessed various factors, including technical readiness, capacity to deliver, and cost-effectiveness, ultimately determining that the Salt and Kongsberg partnership offered the best solution.
The NDMA emphasized that the designs must be “neutral and accessible” to all potential shipbuilders in future procurement phases. Kongsberg’s president, Eirik Lie, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “This marks an important step forward for Kongsberg and the Norwegian defence and maritime industry.” The agency began soliciting proposals in January for up to 28 new standardized ships, aiming to enhance operational efficiency and extend the lifespan of the fleet.
The NDMA plans to complete the requirements specification and reference design by the end of 2026. The shipbuilding competition is scheduled to take place from autumn 2026 to spring 2027, with construction contracts expected to be awarded in 2027. The first vessel is anticipated to be delivered by 2030, marking a significant milestone in Norway’s maritime capabilities.
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Strategic Goals and Future Plans
This initiative is a crucial component of the Armed Forces’ Long-Term Plan and the 2024 Fleet Plan. The objective is to develop a new class of vessels in two sizes: ocean-going and coastal platforms. These vessels will cater to a wide range of operational needs for both the Navy and the Coast Guard. Defence Materiel director Gro Jære highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that the supplier will work closely with the NDMA and the Norwegian Armed Forces to establish a comprehensive technical foundation for the upcoming shipbuilding competition.
Earlier this month, Kongsberg, Salt, and Ottawa-based Adaptive Marine Solutions also secured a contract to design new vessels for the Canadian Coast Guard, further showcasing their expertise in maritime design and construction. As the NDMA moves forward with this ambitious project, the modernization of the Norwegian Navy’s fleet is set to enhance national security and operational readiness in the years to come.
