Collaboration between Nokia and KONGSBERG aims to strengthen battlefield connectivity with deployable 5G solutions

Collaboration between Nokia and KONGSBERG aims to strengthen battlefield connectivity with deployable 5G solutions

(IN BRIEF) Nokia and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on advancing tactical communications for defense organizations and allied nations. The partnership aims to accelerate the deployment of secure and interoperable 5G networks for field operations while also exploring emerging technologies such as unmanned systems, advanced sensors, and future 6G solutions to improve situational awareness and readiness. The initiative builds on Nokia’s expertise in private wireless and commercial telecom solutions and KONGSBERG’s experience in defense communications, with opportunities to participate in European Defense Fund programs including 5G COMPAD and FACT. Senior leaders from both companies highlighted that the collaboration will not only strengthen current battlefield communications but also set the foundation for next-generation connectivity in defense.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 11-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Nokia and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KONGSBERG) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly advance tactical communications capabilities for defense organizations and allied nations. The collaboration combines KONGSBERG’s long-standing expertise in military tactical communications with Nokia’s leadership in commercial 4G, 5G, and private wireless solutions to create secure, reliable, and high-performance networks tailored for defense operations.

The partnership will focus on accelerating the deployment of 5G in tactical environments, enabling resilient and interoperable battlefield communications. In addition to immediate applications, the initiative will explore opportunities in areas such as unmanned systems integration, advanced sensor connectivity, and participation in European Defense Fund initiatives including the 5G COMPAD and Federated Advanced Cyber Physical Test Range (FACT) programs. Looking ahead, Nokia’s work on 6G technologies, such as “network as a sensor” through Integrated Sensing and Communication, will also be a key area of joint exploration to improve situational awareness and enhance military readiness.

Kjetil R. Myhra, Executive Vice President Defence Systems at Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership: “By combining KONGSBERG’s tactical communication assets with Nokia’s expertise in standardized telecommunications, we can accelerate the adoption of advanced civilian telecom solutions within defense systems. This collaboration will allow us to explore how 5G and 6G technologies can address evolving needs in tactical systems, from secure voice and real-time data transmission to unmanned systems and advanced sensor networks.”

Giuseppe Targia, Head of Space and Defense at Nokia, added: “Many of Nokia’s products are inherently dual-use, serving both commercial and defense applications. Working with KONGSBERG underscores our commitment to providing secure, high-speed 5G mobile networks and integrating our Banshee radio portfolio to strengthen operational capabilities across diverse tactical scenarios.”

By combining commercial innovation with defense-specific expertise, Nokia and KONGSBERG aim to deliver deployable 5G solutions that are ready for field operations today while paving the way for next-generation connectivity such as 6G. This collaboration represents a step toward building advanced defense communications that support greater interoperability, resilience, and mission-critical performance.

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About Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace delivers innovative solutions to protect people and critical infrastructure around the world. Our defence systems, which include strike missiles, air defence systems, surveillance, tactical communications, remote weapon stations and more, enhance countries’ ability to defer and defend against external threats. We are a fast-growing player in space exploration, microsatellites and maritime surveillance. Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kongsberg Gruppen ASA, which is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. Kongsberg has 14,000 employees in about 40 countries and revenues of NOK 49 bn in 2024.

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SOURCE: Nokia