The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Norway, including M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related equipment, for an estimated total of $580 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has officially notified Congress of the proposed sale.
Norway has requested the purchase of sixteen M142 HIMARS, along with a suite of associated systems, including fifteen M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Alternative Warhead pods, fifteen M31A2 GMLRS Unitary high explosive pods, and one hundred M57 Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) pods. The package also includes training equipment, spare parts, technical manuals, and various support services.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” the DSCA stated in its notification to Congress.
The acquisition of these advanced artillery systems is expected to significantly enhance Norway’s mid-range firepower and its ability to meet current and future threats. The HIMARS system, known for its mobility and precision, will improve Norway’s interoperability with U.S. and allied forces, a crucial factor for NATO’s collective defense strategy.
The principal contractor for this sale will be Lockheed Martin, based in Grand Prairie, Texas. While specific offset agreements will be negotiated between Norway and Lockheed Martin, the sale is not expected to alter the basic military balance in the region.
Implementation of the sale will involve up to eight U.S. government representatives and five contractor representatives traveling to Norway for program management reviews, equipment fielding, and training. These visits are anticipated to occur approximately twice a year.
The U.S. government has assessed that the sale will have no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness, underscoring the mutual benefits of the deal for both nations.