Norway Approves Additional NASAMS Air Defense Systems Donation to Ukraine

Norway has approved the transfer of additional NASAMS air defense systems to Ukraine, as reported on the Norwegian government website.

The donation, valued at NOK 335 million ($30 million), includes equipment from Norway's armed forces stocks for swift delivery and an order for additional items to be delivered later. The composition of the defense assistance, involving eight launchers and four command posts, aims to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses against Russian attacks, particularly in countering drone and missile threats.

Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram highlighted the significance of air defense in Ukraine's overall defense strategy, emphasizing its crucial role in protecting lives, infrastructure, and military departments. “Air defense is a decisive part of Ukraine's defence. Ukrainian authorities always ask for more support for air defense, and give this a high priority. This will be a major contribution to their ability to defend themselves,” the minister said.

Given the urgency of the situation, Norway has decided to donate NASAMS material directly from its own holdings to ensure a rapid response to Ukraine's immediate needs.

The government's decision also includes the acquisition and donation of eight launch units and four fire control centers for NASAMS from the industry. This effort aligns with Ukraine's ongoing dependence on military support from allies to resist Russian aggression, particularly in the face of challenges posed by drone and missile attacks.

The material donated from the Armed Forces' stocks is expected to be sent promptly to address the urgent air defense needs, while the additional order from the industry will be delivered at a later date.

Currently, Ukraine operates two NASAMS air defense systems, with the U.S. and Canada ordering six and one, respectively, as part of their military aid packages. International allies, including Norway and Lithuania, have also joined forces, with Norway pledging two NASAMS fire platoons and Lithuania procuring two NASAMS launchers for Ukraine in June.

NASAMS, a collaborative effort between Raytheon Technologies and the Norwegian Kongsberg group, stands as a medium-range anti-aircraft missile system. Its primary tactical unit, the battery, typically comprises three firing units, each housing 2 to 3 missile launchers, an AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel radar station, a control vehicle, and a vehicle equipped with an MSP500 electro-optical system. Each mobile launcher carries six containers with anti-aircraft missiles.

The NASAMS II configuration, utilizing AIM-120С AMRAAM missiles, boasts a range of up to 25 km and reaches altitudes of 14-15 km. In its latest iteration, the NASAMS III system extends its capability to target distances of up to 40 km.