Norway To Splash Out $580m On Missile Defence Upgrade

Norway has been given the green light to boost its artillery defences with the acquisition of new High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS).

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) revealed in a press release this week that the U.S. State Department has approved the proposed deal, which would see its Scandinavian NATO ally buy 16 M142 HIMARS launchers along with a range of other warheads and pods.

The total cost of the purchase, which also includes spare parts, training and other logistical elements, is put at an estimated $580 million. The DSCA has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the possible sale today.

The HIMARS missile system is produced by Lockheed Martin; it carries a pod which can be equipped with either six guided rockets or one Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS). It has been in service since 2010 and has been used in conflicts in Afghanistan, Syria, and Iraq as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Government of Norway purchase request includes 15 of the M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS), which have a range of over 150km. It also features 100 ATACMS pod, which fire missiles with a range of up to 300km.

The DSCA statement notes: "The proposed sale will improve Norway’s capability to meet current and future threats and enhance its interoperability with U.S. and other allied forces. It will also enhance Norway’s artillery and mid-range fire capability."

Read more details on the U.S. DSCA website