Norwegian Firm Kongsberg Secures $173 Million Deal to Supply Japan with Advanced Joint Strike Missiles for F-35A Fleet
Oslo, Norway – Norwegian defense contractor Kongsberg has announced the signing of a significant contract to supply Japan with the Joint Strike Missile (JSM), reinforcing Tokyo’s air defense capabilities. This agreement marks Japan’s fifth purchase of the JSM, with the contract valued at 1.9 billion Norwegian kroner ($172.97 million).
Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg, expressed that the new deal underscores the vital role of the JSM in Japan’s national defense strategy and highlights the strengthening ties between Norway, Japan, and Kongsberg.
The JSM is an advanced air-launched cruise missile designed specifically for integration with F-35A fighter aircraft. Featuring a sophisticated navigation system, the missile ensures enhanced accuracy for long-range missions, capable of striking targets located over 150 nautical miles (approximately 275 kilometers) away. Additionally, the JSM’s advanced imaging infrared seeker enables superior target recognition capabilities, making it a formidable asset in modern warfare.
Japan’s relationship with Kongsberg began in earnest with its initial order of the JSM in 2018. The country has since focused on enhancing its air defense, entering into a $23.11 billion agreement in 2020 with the United States to procure 105 F-35 stealth aircraft.
In light of increasing security threats in the region from North Korea, China, and Russia, Japan has been proactive in bolstering its defense posture. The nation ramped up its defense budget and launched efforts to advance its air force capabilities. Earlier this year, Japan collaborated with Northrop Grumman and Mitsubishi Electric to develop key technologies for enhancing its aerial defense systems. Furthermore, in September, it allocated $288 million for the development of a new electronic warfare aircraft based on the Kawasaki P-1 patrol plane.
Looking ahead, Japan is preparing for a substantial defense budget of 8.5 trillion yen ($59 billion) for the next fiscal year, as part of its comprehensive five-year Defense Capability Buildup Program. This program aims to achieve consistent annual budget increases, targeting 2 percent of Japan’s GDP in defense spending by 2027.
As regional tensions mount, Japan’s commitment to upgrading its defense infrastructure signals a strategic pivot towards enhanced security in the Asia-Pacific region.
