Norway switches on Arctic Broadband Network
News story | Date: 18/12/2024 | Ministry of Defence
With two Norwegian satellites launched this summer, the Armed Forces can now communicate more effectively and operate with greater efficiency in the High North.
‘This strengthens the Norwegian Armed Forces' ability to understand and manage situations in the region, while enhancing collaboration with our NATO allies. It strengthens Norway's defence capabilities in the north, while enhancing presence and ensuring national control in our territories,’ said Minister of Defence Mr. Bjørn Arild Gram.
The Defence Minister marked the activation of the satellite-based network with the first video call from the Armed Forces' Satellite Station at Eggemoen to the Coast Guard vessel KV Bjørnøya, located north of the Arctic Circle. Photos available for download.
A milestone for Norwegian defence capabilities
The new broadband capacity in the Arctic represents a major milestone for Norway’s defence.
‘For the first time, we have full control over strategically critical communication services in a region that has previously lacked broadband. This provides better situational awareness in the north, crucial for ensuring stability and predictability in the region. It helps safeguard Norway,’ said Gram.
Improved communication and surveillance
The Norwegian Armed Forces now gain reliable military communications in the High North for land, sea, and air operations, bolstering allied training and readiness in the region.
The broadband coverage will not only benefit the military but also sectors like aviation, research, and fisheries.
- Launch: The Norwegian satellites enabling broadband coverage in the north were launched on 12 August 2024 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California.
- Norwegian Ownership: The satellites are owned and operated by Space Norway, which leads the Arctic Satellite Broadband Mission (ASBM).
- Public-Private Collaboration: ASBM is a unique partnership involving the Norwegian and US Armed Forces, satellite operator Viasat, and the EU Commission.
- Norwegian Space Milestone: The satellites’ highly elliptical orbits keep them over the High North for extended periods, providing stable coverage in the Arctic, where geostationary satellites have limited effectiveness.
- Advanced Capabilities: The satellites support military communications, commercial broadband services, and radiation measurements crucial for future satellite projects.
- Norwegian Innovation: A radiation measurement instrument developed by Integrated Detector Electronics AS aids in developing the Galileo navigation system.
- Longevity: Designed for a 15-year lifespan, the satellites support both civilian and military users.