Vanguard: A system of systems for the future of naval defence
Innovating Defence
Vanguard is the answer to a rapidly evolving security landscape — a modular, mission-adaptable platform developed through a national industrial effort.
Combining commercial shipbuilding with military-grade systems, Vanguard enables faster fleet development, seamless technology integration, and enhanced readiness. With real-time connectivity across manned and unmanned systems, it's more than a ship — it's a system of systems.
Flexible. Scalable. Sustainable. Vanguard is built to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s threats.
Ronny O. Langset, Executive Vice President, Naval Surface Vessels, at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace."Vanguard is a concrete example of how we translate technological expertise into operational defence capability. The platform is built for seamless integration between manned and unmanned systems, and supports advanced sensor and weapon integration."
(photo credit: Audun Sætermo / Forsvarets Forum)
What makes Vanguard unique?
Standardized modules enable rapid reconfiguration of roles and equipment — from patrol missions and coast guard operations to anti-submarine warfare, strike capabilities, and air defence.
A unified architecture manages navigation, sensors, communications, and platform systems—enabling seamless operations and real-time situational awareness.
Designed for seamless integration with both manned and unmanned systems across sea, land, air, and subsea domains — enabling agile, mission-driven use of resources.
Open architecture supports incremental upgrades. Combining commercial shipbuilding with military modules yields lifecycle costs up to 50% lower than traditional naval vessels.
Modular capacity-building allows fleets to expand quickly and cost-effectively in response to evolving threats and mission needs.