Naval Group and Akkodis have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) outlining potential collaboration on Norway’s future frigate program. The agreement sets the framework for cooperation in areas such as testing, trials, and data center operations, as part of broader efforts to engage local industry in the development and support of the new fleet.
The LoI follows discussions initiated during Naval Group’s Industry Days in Bergen in October 2024, where over 50 Norwegian companies took part in briefings and meetings aimed at identifying possible areas of industrial participation. The event was facilitated by FSI and marked the beginning of direct outreach to Norwegian firms interested in contributing to future naval platforms.
The potential partnership is aligned with Norway’s plan to acquire five new frigates starting in 2029. Naval Group has expressed its intention to integrate more Norwegian suppliers into its global supply chain, building on existing collaborations and expanding industrial participation beyond maintenance services.
Akkodis, which operates in Norway through two subsidiaries—Akkodis Edge Norway and Akkodis Norway R&D Services—offers digital engineering and technical expertise that may support various aspects of the frigate program. The two companies are exploring how to leverage this capacity within the FDI platform framework.
Naval Group already sources components from Norwegian firms for existing vessels. Kongsberg equipment is installed on French Navy FREMM frigates, and Norwegian manufacturer Oshaug Metall supplies propeller blades for both French and Greek FDI frigates. In addition, a recent Memorandum of Understanding with the research institute NORCE is part of ongoing efforts to expand cooperation in research and development.
By reinforcing its local partnerships, Naval Group aims to establish long-term value for Norway’s defense and maritime sectors, beyond the immediate scope of shipbuilding.