Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace has launched its first satellite, ARVAKER 1 N3X, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard a SpaceX Transporter 13 mission. This marks the first of three microsatellites that will make up Kongsberg’s N3X constellation.
“Kongsberg has been active in the space segment for decades, delivering high-end technology and solutions, but this successful launch marks a milestone for us as we will own and operate the satellites for the first time,” Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace President Eirik Lie said. Kongsberg Satellite Services will operate the satellites, leveraging its global network of ground stations to deliver real-time surveillance data to customers.
The launch fulfills part of a five-year contract awarded in 2024 by the Norwegian Armed Forces to enhance Norway’s maritime surveillance capabilities. Built using NanoAvionics’ MP42H microsatellite bus, the N3X constellation will provide valuable data to various government agencies, including the Coastal Administration, the Directorate of Fisheries and Norwegian Customs. The system’s capabilities extend beyond Norway’s borders, offering data collection services to international clients.
According to NanoAvionics, Kongsberg’s satellite production arm, the ARVAKER satellites will improve Oslo’s maritime security by detecting illegal fishing, smuggling, and environmental crimes and assisting in search and rescue operations. The satellites are equipped with Automatic Identification System receivers and detector systems from Kongsberg Discovery and a navigation radar detector developed by the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment.
The remaining two satellites, ARVAKER II and III, are scheduled for launch later this year on another Transporter mission.