Allies validate NSM performance in Arctic exercise

Demonstrating long-range strike capability and allied coordination, Norway, the United Kingdom and Poland conducted Exercise Ægir 25 in northern waters. The Naval Strike Missile (NSM), developed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, was at the centre of the scenario, employed jointly across allied platforms in a series of live firings.

  • Text:Amanda Chapman-Stavn / KONGSBERG

    Photo: Ørjan Andreassen & KNM Thor Heyerdahl / Forsvaret

The exercise brought together NSM systems from all three nations, showing that the missile can be employed effectively across different platforms, sensors and operational procedures. It highlighted how allied forces plan and execute complex maritime operations through shared systems and coordinated decision-making.

Integrated missile operations

Led by the Royal Norwegian Navy, the exercise involved frigates, corvettes, coastal defence systems and the Coastal Ranger Command. Norway conducted a live NSM firing from a Nansen-class frigate. 

According to the commanding officer of HNoMS Thor Heyerdahl, the training provided valuable operational experience, improved crew readiness and confirmed the system’s performance.

As part of the joint strike scenario, Norway and Poland carried out a coordinated engagement involving a Skjold-class corvette and Poland’s Naval Missile Unit. Both launched NSM against the decommissioned frigate HNoMS Trondheim, demonstrating allied precision and coordination in a complex maritime environment.

For the United Kingdom, Ægir 25 marked the first live firing of NSM from a Royal Navy warship. HMS Somerset, a Type 23 frigate, launched the missile in Norwegian waters. The event represented an important milestone in bringing the capability into operational use within the Royal Navy and highlighted close cooperation between allied forces and industry.

Experience gained during Ægir 25 will support continued development and integration of NSM across allied fleets.