Netherlands signs $1.1 billion deal with Norway’s Kongsberg to buy air defense systems

Europe, News November 30, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

3 minute read

The Netherlands has signed a $1.1 billion contract with Norway’s Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace to acquire the NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) and the newly developed NOMADS (National Maneuver Air Defense System).

The Dutch military has been operating NASAMS since 2006, however, this is the first time they would acquire the newly developed NOMADS air defense system.

Debuted earlier in 2024, NOMADS is a mobile short-range air defense system designed to protect maneuvering ground forces against modern threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and aircraft. NOMADS emphasizes mobility and integration with existing NATO frameworks, providing seamless coordination across multiple systems.

“By selecting NASAMS and NOMADS, the Netherlands will enhance its air defense capabilities with an integrated system that covers short- and medium-range threats,” said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. He also highlighted that the Netherlands would become the first international customer of the NOMADS system.

Scheduled deliveries and advanced features

The systems are expected to be delivered starting in 2028. NASAMS is a globally recognized system co-developed by Kongsberg and Raytheon Technologies, equipped with an array of missiles like the AMRAAM, AMRAAM-Extended Range, and AIM-9X Sidewinder. These systems are particularly effective against unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), cruise missiles, and fixed-wing aircraft.

NOMADS complements this by offering protection to fast-moving military units. Mounted on mechanized armored platforms, it operates autonomously or in tandem with NASAMS, ensuring flexibility in contested environments.

*^{National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Raytheon. (Image Credit: Kongsberg)}*

Netherlands increasing defense spending

The acquisition aligns with the Dutch Ministry of Defense’s broader strategy to address growing security challenges, particularly considering increased tensions in Europe. In October 2024, the ministry recommended significant investments in defense capabilities to Parliament, including 46 Leopard 2A8 battle tanks alongside the air defense systems. The push for modernization is detailed in a recent defense white paper, which emphasizes the importance of readiness against potential threats, notably from Russia.

The CITADEL program, under which this acquisition falls, aims to create a cohesive air and missile defense network, integrating ground-based and mobile systems to provide a layered shield against modern threats. This approach reflects the evolving landscape of warfare, where drones and advanced missile systems are increasingly prevalent.

NASAMS is currently in operation in 13 countries, making it one of the most widely adopted networked air defense systems globally. For Kongsberg, the partnership with the Netherlands underscores its growing role in NATO’s defense ecosystem.

The deal also showcases the Netherlands’ commitment to defense collaboration within NATO, leveraging shared technologies and standards to enhance interoperability. The inclusion of NOMADS demonstrates the country’s proactive approach to adopting cutting-edge systems tailored to modern threats.

As the Netherlands continues to upgrade its military capabilities, the NASAMS and NOMADS deal represents a pivotal step in strengthening its air defense infrastructure. The investment not only enhances the country’s readiness but also reflects a broader European trend of increased defense spending and modernization in response to global security dynamics.

With deliveries set to begin in 2028, this acquisition will significantly bolster the Netherlands’ position within NATO and its ability to respond to emerging threats effectively.