Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Thales are joining forces to form a new defense communications company in Norway, aiming to deliver advanced, sovereign communication solutions to NATO members and allied nations.
The newly announced 50/50 joint venture will integrate KONGSBERG’s tactical communications unit with Thales’ secure communications and cryptographic business in Norway. With offices in Oslo, Trondheim, and Asker, the company will employ around 350 specialists focused on developing scalable, interoperable systems for battlefield communications across land, air, and command domains.
The move comes in response to a growing need for resilient and secure communications capabilities among European armed forces. The combined entities recorded revenues of NOK 1.5 billion (approximately €130 million) in 2024. With strong foundations in their respective markets and increasing global demand, the new venture is targeting a revenue milestone of NOK 3 billion by 2030.
Combining Tactical Strength and Cryptographic Expertise
KONGSBERG contributes proven capabilities in tactical radio systems used in ground operations and platforms like NASAMS, while Thales brings its long-standing expertise in encrypted communications and high-assurance networks supplied to NATO and other allied customers.
“This partnership enables us to offer a broader, more capable portfolio in secure communications,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. “Together with Thales, we’ll be better positioned to serve both domestic defense needs and international markets.”
Christophe Salomon, Executive Vice President at Thales, emphasized the strategic value of the collaboration: “This joint venture creates a leading force in European secure communications. It also reflects deeper industrial cooperation between Norway and France at a time when sovereign capabilities are more vital than ever.”
Enhancing NATO Readiness and Export Potential
The venture underscores a broader push for interoperability and self-reliant defense technologies across Europe. With complementary product lines and access to Thales’ international distribution network, the new company is expected to compete more aggressively in export markets while strengthening Norway’s role in NATO’s secure communications landscape.
Finalization of the deal is pending regulatory approval, after which the company will begin full-scale operations.
