Norway funds APKWS alternative development in $313 million Ukraine air defense package
global.espreso.tv
Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:43:00 +0200

Defense Express reported the information.The Norwegian government has announced a new military aid package worth 3.2 billion Norwegian kroner (about $313 million) specifically designated for air defense systems to support Ukraine's ongoing defense efforts. This latest commitment is part of Norway's broader 2025 military assistance plan totaling $7.1 billion, with $1.4 billion already allocated to air defense systems.The package includes nearly $98 million for procuring munitions for Ukraine's F-16 fighter jets through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program. While specific weapons weren't detailed, the purchase likely encompasses AIM-120 and AIM-9 air-to-air missiles, as well as APKWS precision-guided rockets, according to defense analysts.Another $49 million will go toward acquiring surface-to-air missiles for Ukraine's S-300 air defense systems. Given that these Soviet-era systems were originally manufactured in Russia, sourcing compatible ammunition has become increasingly challenging. Norwegian officials haven't disclosed the supplier, though industry sources suggest the funding may support new production initiatives based on reverse-engineered Soviet designs.The most innovative element of Norway's aid package involves financing the development of what officials describe as "an advanced precision weapons system that converts inexpensive rockets into highly accurate guided munitions deployable from aircraft or anti-aircraft installations." While the exact investment amount wasn't specified, it appears to be approximately $167 million.This technology closely mirrors the American APKWS system, which transforms standard 70mm unguided Hydra rockets into precision weapons through the addition of laser guidance kits. However, Norwegian authorities have not revealed which defense contractor will develop this alternative system or provided a timeline for deployment.The decision to fund an indigenous alternative rather than simply purchasing existing APKWS systems from the United States suggests Norway is seeking greater control over the supply chain and potentially positioning itself as a long-term supplier of cost-effective precision weaponry for Ukraine and other partners.









