In an interview with Euractiv on February 28, Lee stated that the project aims to leverage Ukrainian technology and produce “hundreds” of missiles once established.
1. Key Details
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New Company in Ukraine
- Kongsberg is “in close negotiations” with Ukrainian industrial partners to create a joint venture dedicated to missile production.
- This new entity would boost mass production of projectiles for the NASAMS (Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System).
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Timeline
- Lee hinted that the joint ventures could be launched “within a few months.”
- Ukraine’s defense industry is expected to provide significant support, using local expertise and highly skilled manufacturing capabilities.
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Volume and Innovation
- Kongsberg anticipates producing “hundreds” of missiles in Ukraine.
- The company sees Ukrainian innovation as integral to the supply chain even after the war ends, potentially integrating the new production lines into global missile manufacturing.
2. Significance of NASAMS and Joint Production
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NASAMS Background
- Co-developed by Kongsberg and the U.S. firm Raytheon, NASAMS is a highly regarded medium-range air defense system designed to protect against various aerial threats, including missiles, drones, and aircraft.
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Strategic Boost for Ukraine’s Defense
- Ukrainian-produced missiles could increase the local availability of interceptors, providing a more cost-effective and rapid supply to air defense units.
- Joint ventures serve as a technology transfer opportunity for Ukraine’s defense sector, accelerating post-war reconstruction and fostering long-term partnerships.
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Potential Global Supply Chain
- Kongsberg’s leadership envisions Ukraine as part of the international supply chain for NASAMS, making it an exporter of advanced missile components beyond the war’s duration.
3. Statements from Stakeholders
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Eirik Lee, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace:
“We are in close negotiations… The top priority is to increase the production of missiles for our air defense system in Ukraine based on Ukrainian technology… We are talking about mass production—hundreds [of missiles].”
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Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov:
- On January 16, Umerov mentioned exploring how Ukrainian-made air defense systems could be integrated into NASAMS.
- Praised Kongsberg’s “significant support” for Ukraine, noting collaboration on NASAMS deliveries that “reliably protect our cities from air attacks.”
4. Broader Context
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Ongoing Cooperation
- Norway and Ukraine have deepened defense collaborations as Ukraine continues to modernize its military amid the conflict.
- Partnering on missile manufacturing indicates Ukraine’s desire to expand domestic arms production and reduce reliance on immediate external shipments.
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Innovation and Post-War Economy
- Kongsberg’s presence may stimulate innovation in Ukraine’s defense industry, creating jobs and reinforcing industrial resilience for the future.
Conclusion
The plan by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace to produce hundreds of NASAMS missiles through a joint venture in Ukraine marks a significant leap in Ukrainian–Norwegian defense ties. With final agreements potentially reached within months, Ukraine is poised to strengthen its air defense while laying the foundation for a post-war military manufacturing hub that integrates into Kongsberg’s global supply chain.
