Norwegian Ministry of Defense Partners with Raytheon and Kongsberg on Advanced Radar Development for NASAMS
Milan, Italy — In a significant boost to Norway’s air defense capabilities, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense has announced a collaborative effort with Raytheon and Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace to develop a next-generation radar system aimed at enhancing the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). This innovative sensor will be grounded in the existing Raytheon GhostEye radar technology, emphasizing improved range and the ability to effectively target high-value threats.
According to Raytheon officials, the new radar will utilize advanced active electronically scanned array and gallium nitride (GaN) technology, promising capabilities that surpass the current NASAMS sensor configuration. “We can’t provide performance specifics, but the radar’s capabilities will far exceed NASAMS’ current sensor configuration,” stated Mike Mills, executive director of GhostEye programs at Raytheon.
The GhostEye radar, which made its debut in 2021, is designed for medium-range air and missile defense, capable of detecting a broad spectrum of threats, including cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters. Industry analysts suggest it could potentially detect targets up to 120 kilometers away, although exact specifications have not been disclosed publicly.
This project marks the first endeavor under the NASAMS Capabilities Collaborative Agreement, finalized in 2023, between Norway’s Ministry of Defense, Kongsberg, and Raytheon. The production of the radar’s components will occur in both Norway and the United States, with production timelines still under discussion.
In June, Norway signed a $440 million contract with Kongsberg for the acquisition of new NASAMS systems, with deliveries expected to commence in 2027. This decision follows Norway’s commitment to bolster Ukraine’s defense, having previously supplied two batteries of NASAMS in March 2023, with further shipments made in December. Norway aims to procure more systems for the war-torn region.
“The development of next-gen radar is a natural step for Norway as the lead nation and will address requirements for a mobile and agile air defense system,” said Kongsberg’s Hans Christian Hagen, highlighting the strategic direction of integrating NASAMS into Norway’s future Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) framework.
NASAMS systems are operational in 13 countries, utilizing various air-to-air missiles, including the AMRAAM, which is already deployed by numerous NATO allies.
Elisabeth Gosselin-Malo, a correspondent with Defense News, reports on military procurement and international security, specializing in aviation sector coverage from her base in Milan, Italy.
