Delivery of first JSM missiles marks major milestone for Norway’s F-35A fighter fleet

The integration of JSM with the F-35 will significantly strengthen Norway’s ability to locate and strike defended targets at long distances with precision and low detection risk. “This is a capability that previously was reserved for major powers,” explained Brigadier Jarle Nergård, head of Air Systems at the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA).

Developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) in cooperation with the NDMA and the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI), the JSM is a product of advanced Norwegian technology. It will be the only missile of its kind that can be carried internally by the F-35, maintaining the aircraft’s range and low radar signature.

The JSM features advanced sensors and two-way communication, enabling it to navigate complex air defences and reach its target under demanding conditions. Designed for both land and maritime strike missions, the missile will unlock new operational potential for the F-35 platform.

“JSM is a highly advanced missile that has received considerable international recognition,” said Øyvind Kolset, head of the Missile and Space Division at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. “It is once again proof that we in Norway can develop world-leading defence products through close cooperation between the defence sector and industry.”

The final three F-35 aircraft were delivered from Lockheed Martin on 1 April, completing Norway’s largest-ever defence procurement. One of these jets will stay in the United States for a period to conduct testing with the JSM and support integration of new software updates required to fully utilise the missile.

This work will be vital to ensure the F-35 platform remains effective against modern threats. “Receiving the JSM now gives us the opportunity to build up stockpiles while the aircraft receive the necessary software, laying the foundation for a rapid transition to operational use,” Nergård said.

Brigadier Nergård highlighted the missile’s strategic value for Norway’s defence strategy. “The JSM gives us a significant strategic advantage and will, for example, pose a threat to surface vessels over vast maritime areas,” he noted.

He added that the missile’s presence would have a powerful deterrent effect: “It will simply not be possible to sail where there are F-35s with JSM.” The JSM will be part of a growing arsenal for Norway’s fighter fleet, alongside other advanced weapons such as the new AMRAAM AIM-120D air-to-air missile.

Norway will be the first of the 20 F-35 partner nations to complete its aircraft deliveries according to plan and is among the leaders in equipping the fleet with modern weapons. Around 20 percent of the total fighter programme budget was allocated to armaments, scheduled towards the end to ensure access to the latest technologies.

International interest in the JSM is already strong, with Australia, Japan, and the United States committed to acquiring the missile. “Interest in the missile is high, and we expect more nations to procure JSM in the coming years,” said Øyvind Kolset.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, together with about 100 Norwegian subcontractors, has heavily invested in expanding production to meet the expected demand. A new factory in Kongsberg, opened in June 2024, is already in full operation to support both national and international deliveries.

KDA is also building additional production facilities in Australia and the United States, aiming for full operational capability by 2028. “This will ensure we are able to meet the demand for both JSM and its sister missile NSM,” Kolset concluded.

Source: Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA).