The Norwegian Armed Forces have officially launched their Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM), bringing significant advancements to telecommunication capabilities across the Arctic region. This program marks a pivotal moment for Norway's defense sector, enhancing strategic command and control capabilities all the way to the North Pole.
The activation of this satellite network was ceremoniously marked by Norway's Minister of Defense, Bjørn Arild Gram, along with leaders from the Norwegian Cyber Defense and Space Norway, as they cut the ribbon at the Armed Forces' satellite station at Eggemoen. This momentous event included the first video call made using the new capacity to the Coast Guard vessel, KV Bjørnøya, traversing Arctic waters. "For the first time, we have full control over strategically important communication services in an area lacking broadband until now. This provides us with enhanced situational awareness, which is pivotal for ensuring regional stability and safeguarding Norway," stated Minister Gram, applauding the extensive coverage now available.
The new network is powered by two Arctic broadband satellites recently launched by SpaceX from Vandenberg Space Force Base, USA. They were formally handed over to Space Norway, the state-owned company leading the ASBM, earlier this October. Alongside military operations, these satellites are expected to serve civilian purposes, with plans for initiating services for commercial broadband suppliers, including Viasat, expected to commence by 2025.
Brigadier Halvor Johansen, the Chief of the Norwegian Armed Forces Cyber Defense, highlighted the role of broadband capabilities saying, "The broadband system expands our operational capabilities drastically. This allows us effective command and control across suitable operations, reaching as far as the North Pole." Johansen also noted the increased opportunities for collaboration with other defense branches and allied forces, affirming this initiative as one of the most significant milestones in Norway's defense capabilities.
Space Norway has been engaged with the ASBM project since 2014, beginning with contracts from the Norwegian Armed Forces and has attracted interest from the US Armed Forces and the European Union Commission based on their respective needs for broadband coverage and data mapping for future satellite designs.
The project has seen substantial investment, with around USD 450 million allocated for building these satellites. They are sizable, measuring 3x3x4 meters and extending with wingspans of up to 27 meters, weighing roughly two tons each. Their construction demonstrated Norway's determination and capability to meet current technological demands.
Operational responsibilities of the satellites are shared by Space Norway's subsidiaries HEOSAT and Kongsberg Satellite Services from their base in Tromsø, Northern Norway, providing focused support to both military and commercial users through various designated frequency bands.
Meanwhile, Motorola Solutions has also secured its own significant contract with Norway, operating the nationwide TETRA network through the Nødnett system, now set to continue services until 2031. This contract, valued at 1.78 billion NOK (approximately 160 million USD), ensures reliable communication channels for over 60,000 first responders daily across Norway.
Elisabeth Aarsæther, Director General at the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB), emphasized the contract's importance, stating, "This agreement is fundamental for public safety and emergency preparedness. Nødnett is indispensable for emergency services and other preparedness organizations, especially within Norway's challenging terrains and operational environments." The Nødnett system prides itself on seamless interoperability with TETRA networks from neighboring Sweden and Finland, allowing serious public safety operations to flourish through mutual support.
Michael Kaae from Motorola Solutions praised the resilience and reliability of their TETRA standard services, saying, "We are committed to uphold Norway’s emergency communication standards to protect communities effectively, enhancing safety and preparedness well beyond 2027." With the collaborative strength seen between Defense and Communications sectors, Norway is paving the way for groundbreaking advancements across its Arctic regions, reinforcing its strategic importance.