Norwegian defense giant Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has signed strategic agreements with two key Ukrainian industrial partners to co-develop low-cost, high-volume air defence missiles and unmanned surface vessels (USVs). In a significant move that highlights its long-term commitment to Ukraine, the company also announced the opening of a permanent office in Kyiv.
The agreements were formalized during a high-level visit to the Ukrainian capital by KONGSBERG President Eirik Lie, where a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with Ukrainian partners to jointly manufacture cost-effective air defense missiles designed to neutralize drone threats.
“There is an urgent need to produce more cost-effective air defence missiles in large volumes to deal with threats from attacking drones,” said Eirik Lie. “Together with our Ukrainian partner, and with support from the Norwegian authorities, we look forward to developing a missile that can be integrated into the NASAMS air defence system and delivered in large numbers.”
The initiative has strong backing from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence, with Minister Tore O. Sandvik emphasizing the operational relevance of NASAMS in Ukraine:
“The NASAMS air defence systems help save Ukrainian lives and protect critical infrastructure daily. We are now funding the development of more affordable air defence missiles to support continued resilience in Ukraine.”
The ceremony marking the partnership also commemorated the official launch of KONGSBERG’s new office in Kyiv, attended by both Minister Sandvik and Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.
Expanding Maritime Defense Capabilities
In parallel, KONGSBERG signed another MoU with a Ukrainian industrial player to develop unmanned surface vessels (USVs), commonly known as drone boats. These platforms will be outfitted with KONGSBERG’s PROTECTOR remote weapon stations, enhancing Ukraine’s naval capabilities in the Black Sea.
“Unmanned vessels play a major role in helping Ukraine defend its territory and neutralize the Russian Navy. With our systems and the expertise of Ukrainian partners, we are ready to deliver the next generation of unmanned maritime capabilities,” Lie noted.
The maritime program will also receive financial support from the Norwegian government, demonstrating Oslo’s ongoing commitment to Ukraine’s technological and defense modernization.
