Next-generation NASAMS radar to enhance Norway's air defence

The Norwegian Ministry of Defense will collaborate with Raytheon and Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace to co-develop a next-generation radar system aimed at enhancing the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS). 

The upgraded radar will significantly boost NASAMS' capabilities against high-value targets, including cruise missiles, drones, and aircraft, Caliber.Az reports, citing Defense News.

The new sensor, based on Raytheon’s GhostEye radar family, will feature an active electronically scanned array (AESA) and gallium nitride (GaN) technology, providing extended range and improved detection capabilities. While the exact performance specifications remain undisclosed, experts estimate that the radar could detect targets up to 120 kilometres away.

“We can’t provide performance specifics, but the radar’s capabilities will far exceed NASAMS’ current sensor configuration – this is largely driven by the active electronically scanned array and gallium nitride (GaN) technology featured in the GhostEye family of radars,” Mike Mills, executive director of GhostEye programs at Raytheon told Defense News.

This radar development marks the first project under the NASAMS Capabilities Collaborative Agreement, signed in 2023. Production will take place in both Norway and the United States, though delivery timelines are still under discussion.

In June, Norway signed a $440 million contract with Kongsberg for new NASAMS systems, expected to be delivered from 2027, replacing equipment donated to Ukraine earlier in 2023. NASAMS, already operational in 13 countries, serves as the backbone of Norway’s future Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD).

By Khagan Isayev