Kongsberg links defence ambitions to AI strategy

Kongsberg has joined a broad alliance of Norwegian companies and organisations seeking to coordinate national efforts in artificial intelligence and quantum technology. 

The initiative brings together Aker, Cognite, DNB, DNV, Equinor, Hydro, SINTEF, Telenor, Vår Energi, Yara, the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO) and Kongsberg under a joint technology declaration.

The signatories argue that AI and quantum technology will be decisive for productivity, safety and value creation in Norway. For defence giant Kongsberg the initiative is framed as both an industrial commitment and a strategic obligation.

- Our role as a global technology company headquartered in Norway carries a responsibility that we are actively fulfilling. We are integral to this effort as industry strengthens its innovation capacity and seeks to attract additional expertise, capital and research engagement, says Arne Rinnan, chief technology officer at Kongsberg, in a press release.

From research to operational technology

Quantum technology uses quantum mechanical phenomena to enable tasks such as sensing, secure communication and advanced computation. While much of the field remains at an early research stage, Kongsberg points to nearer-term industrial applications.

Ellen Dahler Tuset, also a board member of Norway Quantum House (Norsk kvanteklynge), identified quantum sensors for monitoring and navigation as relevant to the group’s portfolio, both above and below water.

We are integral to this effort as industry strengthens its innovation capacity and seeks to attract additional expertise, capital and research engagement

Arne Rinnan, CTO of Kongsberg

- In addition, we are examining secure communication and the potential for advanced analysis and simulation based on quantum algorithms, Tuset says in the press release.

According to Tuset, interest in quantum technology has accelerated in recent years, shifting from long-term research discussion towards a more defined industrial agenda.

Technology readiness gap

A recurring theme in the declaration is the need to shorten the distance between early-stage research and operational deployment. 

Technology maturity is commonly measured using the technology readiness level (TRL) scale, which ranges from TRL 1, where basic principles are observed, to TRL 9, where systems are proven in operational environments.

- In quantum technology, we need to move rapidly from TRL 1 to TRL 7. For that, candidates with the right knowledge and expertise are essential, Tuset adds.

She also called for more specialists with backgrounds in physics and quantum science, both to strengthen research and to embed expertise within established industrial companies.

For Nordic defence and security industries, the initiative signals a coordinated attempt to position Norway in fields likely to shape future sensor architectures, secure communications and advanced data processing.