Kongsberg Gruppen ASA has announced plans to restructure its operations by creating two independent, publicly listed companies, aimed at sharpening strategic focus across its business segments. Under the proposal, Kongsberg Maritime will be spun off and listed separately on the Euronext Oslo Stock Exchange, while Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Kongsberg Discovery will be merged into a single, consolidated defense and technology group that will retain the Kongsberg name.
The proposed reorganization reflects the company’s response to continued global demand for security and sustainable technologies, which have driven growth in recent years. Kongsberg said the two entities have reached sufficient financial strength and scale to operate independently, with revenues and workforce now roughly balanced between them.
The maritime business will continue to focus on its core technology and integrated systems for commercial and naval vessels, while the consolidated Kongsberg entity will center on defense, surveillance, and dual-use technology markets. Both companies will remain headquartered in Norway and continue to collaborate where commercially beneficial.
Kongsberg defense portfolio includes the NASAMS air defense system, the Joint Strike Missile (JSM) and Naval Strike Missile (NSM) programs – key assets in several NATO arsenals – as well as command-and-control systems, space technologies, and tactical communications. The company is also involved in ongoing modernization programs for the Norwegian Armed Forces and continues to expand its global partnerships, including work with the United States and European defense industries. These programs will form the foundation of the new consolidated Kongsberg entity, anchoring its role as a key contributor to NATO-aligned defense capabilities.
The new Kongsberg Maritime, will focus on advancing integrated solutions and digital technologies for the global maritime and offshore industries. Its operations span propulsion, automation, and dynamic positioning systems, as well as sensor technologies and autonomous vessel solutions. The company plays a key role in supporting maritime decarbonization through energy-efficient ship systems and digital platforms that enhance operational performance and sustainability.
The demerger will be executed through a direct share distribution to existing shareholders, with one share in the new maritime company issued for each Kongsberg share held. The Norwegian government, which remains the largest shareholder, has expressed support for the plan. Trading in Kongsberg Maritime shares is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026.
Leadership changes accompanying the move include Lisa Edvardsen Haugan becoming CEO of the new Kongsberg Maritime and Mette Toft Bjørgen serving as its CFO. Eirik Lie will take over as CEO of Kongsberg Gruppen following completion of the demerger.
The Norwegian state, which holds a 50% stake in the company, has expressed its support for the proposed transaction. The move follows a period of significant growth, with the group tripling its operating revenues since 2016 and now employing 15,000 people. The number of employees, revenue, and results are now relatively evenly distributed between the two companies. Both have reached a size and financial robustness that enables them to operate independently, the company said.
The restructuring marks one of the most significant corporate reorganizations in Norway’s industrial sector in recent years. It positions Kongsberg to better align with global defense modernization and maritime decarbonization trends, enabling each business to pursue targeted growth strategies amid shifting geopolitical and technological landscapes.
A military history enthusiast, Richard began at Forecast International as editor of the World Weapons Weekly newsletter. As the Internet grew in importance as a research tool, he helped design the company's Forecast Intelligence Center and currently coordinates the EMarket Alert newsletters for clients. Richard also manages social media efforts, including two new blogs: Defense & Security Monitor, covering defense systems and international issues, and Flight Plan, which focuses on commercial aviation and space systems. For over 30 years, Richard has authored the Defense & Aerospace Companies, Volume I (North America) and Volume II (International) services. The two books provide detailed data on major aerospace and defense contractors. He also edits the International Contractors service, a database that tracks all the contractors involved in the programs covered in the FI library. More recently he was appointed Manager, Information Services Group (ISG), a new unit that encompasses developing outbound content for both Forecast International and Military Periscope.
