Norway acquires precision artillery ammunition for K9 VIDAR howitzers from the United States

These advanced fuses, equipped with GPS and guiding fins, will be integrated with Norway’s 155mm VIDAR artillery system. The technology will significantly improve accuracy, allowing artillery rounds to strike targets with greater precision and efficiency.

Gro Jære, Director of the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA), emphasised that Norway is making substantial investments in artillery ammunition. She highlighted that this purchase will enhance Norway’s combat capabilities and strengthen interoperability with the United States and allied forces.

Traditionally, artillery systems have relied on a large volume of rounds to cover broad target areas. However, the new guided fuses will enable Norwegian forces to achieve the same or better effectiveness with fewer munitions, reducing collateral damage and improving operational efficiency.

The procurement and integration of these systems have been carried out in close collaboration with US authorities, the Norwegian Armed Forces, the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA). KDA is the supplier of the Army’s fire control system, ensuring seamless compatibility with the new technology.

Jære also praised the extensive groundwork and integration efforts undertaken by the involved partners, highlighting the role of the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment and KDA in the successful implementation of the system.

Source: NDMA.