Ukraine has been operating Norwegian-made NASAMS systems, developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, since November 2022, when the first unit was delivered. The programme is supported by Norway, Lithuania, the United States, and Canada, with a total commitment of 13 complete batteries and additional components equivalent to at least three more.
Deliveries so far account for about half of the pledged systems, as some units are still in production. The full package includes six command cabins and 12 launchers, with the remaining systems expected to be completed and delivered in due course.
Since their deployment, NASAMS systems have been used to intercept approximately 900 aerial threats, achieving a reported 94% hit rate. Around 60% of intercepted targets were cruise missiles, including the Kh-101, Kh-555, Kh-59, and Kh-69, as well as Kalibr and Iskander-K missiles.
The remaining 40% of intercepted threats—approximately 360 targets—were unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), primarily Shahed loitering munitions. The system’s effectiveness reflects both its advanced technology and the high level of training among Ukrainian operators, many of whom are seasoned air defence personnel.
Norway has been training Ukrainian NASAMS crews at its Rygge and Ørland air bases, with graduates being deployed directly into combat. These units are responsible for defending critical infrastructure, including government buildings, power plants, hospitals, and airports, ensuring the continuity of essential services.
NASAMS is considered one of the most versatile short-range air defence systems, offering high mobility and compatibility with various missile types. The latest NASAMS 3 variant, in production since 2019, is capable of launching AIM-9X Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and AMRAAM-ER missiles, enhancing its operational flexibility.
The system is the result of Norwegian-American cooperation, with missiles supplied by Raytheon. NASAMS 3 launchers have been upgraded for rapid deployment and air transport, and since December 2024, Norwegian NASAMS 3 systems have been on combat duty near Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport in Poland as part of NATO’s regional air defence efforts.
Source: Aftenposten.
