The Norwegian government has petitioned parliament for 10 more launch units and four fire control centers of the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) from Kongsberg. This is in addition to repurchasing similar NASAMS equipment already donated to Ukraine. The investment is worth 3.45 billion kroner ($329 million), according to Norway’s Ministry of Defence. Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram stated that the proposal is a direct response to Ukraine’s call for support in its ongoing war and a way for Oslo to solidify its defense structure, stating, “The Russian missile and drone attacks are extensive and brutal, so air defense is absolutely decisive for Ukraine. At the same time, I am concerned that we reacquire air defenses for our own defense as quickly as possible.”
Earlier this month, Norway ordered 1.4 billion kroner ($134 million) in NASAMS multi-missile canister launchers and new Fire Distribution Centers. The deal was to replace military equipment sent to Kyiv last year. Norway has chosen to send the Kongsberg missile launchers in multiple aid packages as it can be sent within a relatively short time, boosting Ukraine’s air defense against Russia.
