Northrop Grumman has signed a deal with Norwegian company Andøya Space to develop capabilities for Norway’s Long Term Defence Plan.
Under the memorandum of agreement, the two companies will create new autonomous maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance equipment that will be integrated into all armed forces branches.
Northrop global surveillance vice president Jane Bishop stated that the partners will begin the program’s development by leveraging the MQ-4C Triton as a premier unmanned aerial vehicle for Norway.
“Our partnership with Andøya Space marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to advancing autonomous capabilities together with Norwegian industry,” she added.
The Long Term Defence Plan
Norway’s Long Term Defence Plan features a 12-year defense budget of 600 billion kroner ($60 billion).
Under the program, Oslo seeks to introduce new capabilities and more personnel into the army, expecting 4,600 additional conscripts, 13,700 reservists, and 4,600 employees.
The plan will also tackle maritime packages, air defense, situational awareness, and army and Home Guard support.
Initial steps taken to improve defense before the plan’s announcement include an $88-million deal with Kongsberg to reduce the delivery times of its NASAMS air defense systems, as well as the acquisition of maritime surveillance satellites fitted with identification receivers and detectors.