KONGSBERG enters satellite operations with inaugural launch

KONGSBERG enters satellite operations with inaugural launch
by Robert Schreiber
Berlin, Germany (SPX) Mar 24, 2025

Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace (KONGSBERG) has taken a major step into the space sector by launching and now operating its first microsatellite, marking the company's transition into satellite-based service provision.

The microsatellite, named ARVAKER 1 N3X, was deployed from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard SpaceX's Transporter 13 mission. This launch not only signifies KONGSBERG's technical reach but also its new role as an independent satellite operator.

"KONGSBERG has been active in the space segment for decades, delivering high-end technology and solutions, but this successful launch marks a milestone for us as we will own and operate the satellites for the first time," said Eirik Lie, President of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace.

Leveraging its group-wide capabilities, KONGSBERG now offers an integrated suite of satellite services. This includes in-house manufacturing of microsatellites, deployment of ground stations, and advanced data processing and analytics. By combining space-based platforms with terrestrial infrastructure, the company aims to optimize data flow and reduce transmission delays. Additionally, KONGSBERG's secure facilities enable assembly, integration, and testing of satellites with sensitive or nationally restricted payloads.

In 2024, the Norwegian government, via the Armed Forces, awarded KONGSBERG a five-year contract to deliver maritime surveillance data for regions of national interest. As part of this agreement, the company is set to launch a total of three satellites.

The surveillance data will support multiple agencies, including the Norwegian Armed Forces, the Coastal Administration, the Directorate of Fisheries, and Norwegian Customs, enhancing maritime domain awareness and security.

The MP42H-class satellites, produced by Kongsberg NanoAvionics, are fitted with Automatic Identification System (AIS) receivers and detection instruments supplied by Kongsberg Discovery. They also incorporate a navigation radar detector developed by the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI). Kongsberg NanoAvionics has so far built and launched 40 satellites.

Satellite operations are managed by Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT), utilizing its global network of ground stations to deliver frequent and low-latency surveillance data to both Norwegian and international clients.