A joint technology initiative
Aker, Cognite, DNB, DNV, Equinor, Hydro, SINTEF, Telenor, Vår Energi, Yara, NHO, and Kongsberg signed a letter of intent in December 2025 to launch a coordinated national technology initiative.
Arne Rinnan, Chief Technology Officer at KONGSBERG, emphasises that it is important for the business community in Norway to stand together.
This letter of intent is a powerful joint initiative by the business community and the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO) to ensure that Norway takes a leading role in the development and application of artificial intelligence and quantum technology - through cooperation, competence building and better framework conditions.
Arne Rinnan, Chief Technology Officer at KONGSBERG
He also states that the collaboration will help Norway take a clear position in the development of future artificial intelligence and quantum technology.
"Our role as a global technology company headquartered in Norway carries with it a responsibility that we are actively fulfilling. We are integral to this project, as the industry enhances its capacity for innovation and continues to attract additional expertise, capital, and research engagement," says Rinnan.
A change of pace
Quantum technology focuses on manipulating tiny particles, quanta, to tackle challenges in innovative ways. Ellen Dahler Tuset notes that KONGSBERG has long been interested in this field.
We have been following and taking part in discussions about the application of quantum technology for years. However, we do see a change of pace during the last couple of years.
Ellen Dahler Tuset
Tuset, also a member of the board of Norway Quantum House (Norsk kvanteklynge), says that the most obvious areas of application for KONGSBERG will be in quantum sensor technology for monitoring and navigation. This applies both above and below water.
“In addition, we are looking at secure communication and the possibility of advanced analysis and simulation based on quantum algorithms", Tuset says.
Securing the future is essential
She emphasises the need to nurture new talent with expertise in quantum technology and its potential applications.
"Above all, we require candidates who are eager to bridge the divide between individuals skilled in practical applications and those with deep knowledge of fundamental physics and mathematics", he says.
In research and innovation, the scale TRL, Technology Readiness Level, is often used to assess the maturity of a technology.
Tuset explains that there is a significant gap between TRL 1, where a phenomenon is first understood, and TRL 7, which is reached when a prototype operates in a real-world setting.
"In quantum technology, we need to move rapidly from TRL 1 to TRL 7. For this, candidates with the right knowledge and expertise are essential", she notes.
"Norway requires more people with backgrounds in physics and quantum science, not only to push research forward and launch startups but also to bring this expertise into established companies. These skills are needed to develop new sensors, algorithms, and materials, applying them practically for society's benefit", Tuset adds.
