Norway launches competition for SATCOM services

Norway is launching a competition to procure satellite communications (SATCOM) via a subscription-based model to bolster its network connectivity. 

Announced on 19 March on the Mercell tendering system, the competition calls for a distributor to procure and provide Norway with access to SATCOM services from leading satellite operators Iridium, Viasat, Thuraya, OneWeb, and Starlink. 

The eventual service contract will be awarded by the Norwegian Defence Materiel Administration (FMA) and is valued at NOK450 million (GBP35 million).  

As militaries seek to accelerate their access to new technologies, the ‘as-a-service’ approach is becoming increasingly common.  

This enables armed forces to utilise the hardware or software of third-party organisations, rather than owning the equipment outright.  

Evaluating potential distributors  

Following a prequalification stage that ends 20 April, the FMA will engage in a negotiated procurement procedure with potential suppliers.   

Alongside facilitating access to major satellite networks, the chosen provider will deliver unspecified additional relevant services to the FMA over the course of the contract period.