Kongsberg and Andøya Space sign MOU with focus on space sector
The two-stage sub-orbital rocket carrying the hypersonic ATHEAt experiment lifting off from the Andøya Space launch site on 6 October 2025. (Andøya Space )
Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Andøya Space with a focus on building co-operation within space launch, system integration, testing, operations, and long-term infrastructure development within the space sector, according to a 20 October Kongsberg press release.
The MOU is aimed at combining Kongsberg's satellite production and system integration with Andøya's “unique launch capabilities”, according to Øyvind Kolset, executive vice-president of Missiles and Space, Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace. In the press release, the CEO of Andøya Space, Ketil Olsen, said the company is also looking forward to developing its technology test range at Andøya to “ensure it remains relevant for emerging technologies and the needs of our allies”.
Andøya Space is headquartered on the island of Andøya in northern Norway. The island is about 300 km inside the Arctic Circle. In March 2025, Olsen told Janes that Andøya Space is ideally suited for launching satellites and other systems for surveillance of the High North. It also performs complex tests of various weapons systems. According to the company website, the danger area of 25,000 km 2 and low-density airspace allow for support of operations, which are “not possible to conduct anywhere else”. Andøya Space says it supports aircraft system testing, drop tests, tests of boosters and rocket motors including hypersonic versions, tests of missile seekers, tests of unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), and ground-based air defence (GBAD) testing and operational training.
According to previous Janes
Go beyond the headlines - with direct links to interconnected entities
Get full access to validated equipment, military capabilities, and market insights.
