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The Norwegian and German governments have begun development of a next-generation naval strike missile with industrial partner Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.
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The SuperSonic Strike Missile (3SM) Tyrfing is scheduled to be ready in 2035 and complement Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile, according to a statement from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence.
Development of the new “Super Missile” is a collaborative project between Norway and Germany and is planned to be deployed on naval vessels in both countries.
The Norwegian government is proposing to initiate and complete the initial design phase of the project, before returning to the Norwegian Parliament with a recommendation to continue the project.
“The development of Norwegian missiles is a success story. The Norwegian defence industry, with Kongsberg at the forefront, has unique expertise and produces world-class missiles,” said Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.
“The project will continue to extend this strategically important expertise, so we can continue to develop missiles that are attractive to other NATO countries and close allies.”
The Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile was originally developed in the early 2000s and delivered to the Norwegian Armed Forces from 2011 to 2015; the missile has been selected by 13 countries.
“The new strike missile project will ensure that Norway retains its position as a world leader in missile production, based on seamless cooperation between industry, governments, and research establishments,” according to Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace president Eirik Lie.
“The project will create new Norwegian jobs, while offering Norway and its allies improved defence capabilities.”
Earlier this year, the US State Department approved a possible $293 million foreign military sale of 580 small diameter bomb II to the government of Norway.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the possible sale on 28 June.
Under the deal, Norway has requested the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bombs-Increment II All-Up-Rounds on top of the original foreign military sale of 20 GBU-53/B, SDB-II AURs.
It also includes SDB-II Weapon load crew trainers and practical explosive ordnance disposal trainers, munitions support and support equipment, spare parts, and repair support.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” the DSCA statement said.
“The proposed sale will improve Norway’s capability to meet current and future threats by bolstering operational readiness while enhancing air and defence capabilities with a modernised weapon to support the new F-35A fleet.”
Raytheon Missile Systems was selected as the principal contractor and the proposed sale will not require any additional US government or contractor representatives to Norway.
