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Rheinmetall has entered into a contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to modernise multi-sensor platforms for use onboard the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System.
The contract, reportedly in the “low double-digit million-euro range”, includes the replacement of the 2002-era multi-sensor platform MSP500 and auxiliary sensors with the newer MSP600 digital sensor system.
A “successor” to the MSP500 and MSP600, Rheinmetall explained that the updated MSP600 digital model is currently in use by militaries across the globe and has had obsolescent features removed while enhancing performance.
The electro-optical package includes an advanced thermal imager, high-precision laser rangefinder and high-resolution HD colour daylight camera.
The installation is scheduled to commence in 2025, with the sensor platforms integrated into the NASAMS batteries.
In December, Rheinmetall confirmed that it had been awarded a €182 million (AU$282 million) contract for the supply of two Skynex air defence systems to an undisclosed international customer.
The system is expected to be delivered in early 2024.
Separately, a memorandum of understanding was signed for the procurement of HX trucks for an estimated €12 million ($AU18.6 million) — to be delivered alongside the Skynex system.
Skynex is designed to offer short-range strike capability, responding when guided missiles are ineffective.
The capability also supports 35mm Ahead ammunition — also developed by Rheinmetall — which is resistant to electronic countermeasure technologies.
According to Rheinmetall, the success of the self-propelled Flakpanzer Gepard anti-aircraft system in Ukraine is a demonstration of the effectiveness of 35mm gun-based air defence against aerial targets.
The Skynex system also reportedly enables integration of radar equipment from various manufacturers, supporting an array of air defence weapons.
[Related: Rheinmetall contracted to supply weapons systems for the F126 frigate]
