The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency has today signed a contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for sensor upgrades of the Skjold-class corvettes. The contract has a value of about NOK 410 million.
The upgrade includes improved fire control radars and new electro-optical sensors for four vessels, as well as their integration into existing combat systems. Accordong to the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency, this will strengthen the ability to detect and follow targets, including smaller and fast targets such as drones, while the vessels’ 76 mm guns can deliver precise fire also for years to come.
The measures are part of a comprehensive modernization of the Skjold-class, and will help keep the vessels operational and relevant until new standardized vessels and other capacities in the Fleet Plan 2024 are in place.
“We are pleased to continue the work with the Norwegian Defence Material Agency on the Skjold class to support and strengthen the fleet’s operational ability and availability,” said Kjetil Reiten Myhra, Executive Vice President, Defence Systems, at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace.
“This contract is an important contribution to ensuring that the Skjold-class remains a relevant and combat-capable asset in the years ahead. The upgrade enhances precision, detection capability and endurance, and constitutes a key element in the overall modernisation of the vessels,” says Head of Maritime Capabilities, Stein Håvard Bergstad, at Norwegian Defence Material Agency.
The project will start immediately, with the installation of the first system planned for 2026.
