Several local shipyards, including Kongsberg Maritime AS, Skipsteknisk AS, and Ulstein Design & Solutions AS, are continuing to compete for the contract to build 28 new vessels for the Norwegian armed forces. This opportunity arises as part of a national competition announced by the Norwegian Ministry of Defense earlier this autumn, which emphasized the requirement that the ships must be produced domestically. The inclusion of these shipyards indicates a significant focus on maintaining a robust local shipbuilding industry in Norway, which is seen as crucial for the country's defense capabilities.

The Norwegian Ministry of Defense has explicitly specified that the vessels should be built in Norway, reflecting a strategic decision to bolster domestic production and ensure that the country's defense resources are developed locally. The competition is part of broader efforts to modernize and enhance the Norwegian military's operational capabilities, especially in the context of increased geopolitical tensions in the region. By fostering local expertise and capabilities, the Ministry aims to secure a reliable supply chain and promote economic resilience within the defense sector.

Vard group has expressed its desire to participate in the competition, yet it was not selected for the next phase, illustrating the competitive nature of the bidding process. As the story unfolds, it will be crucial to watch how the selected shipyards will maneuver through the competition and what this means for the future of the maritime defense industry in Norway. The outcome of this defense contract will likely impact job creation, technological advancements, and the overall health of the maritime sector in the country.