On October 28, 2024, Norway finalized an agreement with the United States to acquire AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air defense missiles, a contract valued at over $363 million, according to an announcement from the Norwegian military. This acquisition, among the most significant in Norway’s defense history, represents a key step in Norway’s strategic initiative to reinforce its air defense capabilities amid growing regional tensions.
The purchase of AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles offers the Norwegian Armed Forces a significant strategic advantage in air defense. Designed to intercept and neutralize medium-range aerial threats, these missiles provide high flexibility, as they can be deployed in both ground-based defense systems and F-35A fighter jets. Their precision and ability to target multiple threats make them a modern deterrent against potential incursions, especially in a context where Norway shares a border with Russia. In Ukraine, similar AMRAAM versions deployed in NASAMS systems have proven effective against Russian drones and missiles, yielding positive field feedback. These missiles have demonstrated their reliability and effectiveness in countering diverse aerial attacks, enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure and airspace security in conflict zones.
The AIM-120C-8 model, manufactured by the American defense giant RTX Corporation, is a crucial element in Norway’s evolving defense architecture. Known for its advanced medium-range interception capabilities, the AMRAAM system is designed to counter a wide range of aerial threats, thus meeting Norway’s geographical and security needs. The Norwegian Defense Material Agency emphasized the missile’s dual role, stating that it will primarily serve within Norway’s ground-based air defense network, while also being deployable by the F-35A fighter jets in the Norwegian Air Force.