The Ministry of Defence has published a strategy to ensure the involvement of Norwegian industry throughout the frigate programme, aiming to secure both national preparedness and industrial development. “This strategy therefore assumes that the procurement will not only provide Norway with a timely, modern and capable frigate system, but also help to develop and maintain a sustainable and competitive base for Norway’s national defence industry.”
A close strategic partnership, preferably with a nation already engaged in a frigate programme, will ensure system compatibility, shared logistics, and long-term support. The frigates will be procured under Project 1180 as part of Fleet Plan 2024, which includes the option for a sixth frigate and associated anti-submarine helicopters.
Norway’s approach includes three main industrial cooperation tracks: binding Industrial Cooperation Agreements (ICAs), short-term industrial collaboration opportunities, and medium to long-term cooperation including through-life support. All ICAs must equal 100 per cent of the contract value and be in place before the main procurement contract is signed.
In the short term, the Ministry will promote Norwegian missile systems (NSM/3SM), secure integration of nationally developed communication and security solutions, and explore opportunities for partial construction or outfitting in Norway. Maritime autonomous systems and underwater drones are also emphasised as important Norwegian contributions.
Medium- and long-term priorities include enabling Norwegian industry to take lead roles in maintenance, upgrades, and future production, including possible contributions to the partner nation’s own fleet. A Joint Programme Office will be created to manage bilateral cooperation in through-life support and industrial roles.
The Ministry underlines the importance of equal treatment and transparency in the selection of a strategic partner and aims to establish early Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to secure binding industrial commitments. “Balanced against the consideration of systems similarity and the need for efficient execution, the procurement of frigates will therefore also be focused on further developing a strong and competitive base for Norway’s national defence industry.”
Norwegian industry has been invited to submit a catalogue of opportunities, which will inform negotiations and form the basis of future binding industrial plans. Through forums and structured cooperation, small and medium-sized enterprises are expected to play a key role in achieving the strategy’s objectives and strengthening supply chain resilience.
Read the strategy: Strategy for the involvement of Norwegian industry in the procurement of new frigates.
