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Press release

Rune Jensen appointed acting Chief Executive Officer of Space Norway

Morten Tengs will step down as Chief Executive Officer of Space Norway with effect from 1 September, when he will take up the role of Special Adviser. The Board has appointed Rune Jensen as acting Chief Executive Officer until a permanent successor is appointed.

“We would like to thank Morten Tengs for his longstanding contribution and for the work he has devoted to Space Norway over many years,” says Svein Olav Munkeby, Chair of the Board of Space Norway.

“It has been a rewarding experience to lead Space Norway during an exciting period for the company, and I would like to thank our employees, partners and the Board for their excellent cooperation. From 1 September, I will take up the role of Special Adviser,” says Morten Tengs.

Rune Jensen is currently Director of Subsea Cable at Space Norway and has been a member of the company’s executive management team since 2023. He has strong knowledge of the business, the organisation and the company’s strategic priorities. Before joining Space Norway, Jensen served for two years as the Norwegian Polar Institute’s resident manager in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard. He also brings extensive experience from the defence sector, where he has held a number of positions both nationally and in international operations.

“We are pleased that Rune Jensen has accepted this responsibility. He knows the company well and has the experience and sound judgement required to lead Space Norway through this transition period,” says Svein Olav Munkeby.

“I am grateful for the trust placed in me and, together with my highly skilled colleagues, I will work to continue the strong progress made at Space Norway,” says Rune Jensen.

The company’s operations will continue as normal, and the Board will now begin the process of recruiting a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742
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Customer success story

Emergency communication at Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service

When emergency services need assistance

Emergency services - Ringerike Brann- og redningstjeneste
Photo: Ringerike kommune

Emergency services are relied upon when incidents escalate, but they also depend on reliable communications when they need support. In remote areas, where mobile coverage can be weak or unavailable, that connection can be critical.

The siren sounds as the incident command vehicle leaves the main road and turns onto a gravel track. A report of smoke from a remote property has sent Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service(Ringerike brann- og redningstjeneste) along a rough route between woodland and rocky outcrops. In the distance, smoke rises above the treetops.

When the crew arrives, the incident commander quickly discovers that several buildings are on fire and that there are multiple casualties. The situation is far more serious than first reported. Additional resources are needed immediately, but the mobile signal is too weak to call for reinforcements. In a critical situation, reliable connectivity can make all the difference.

This scenario is fictional, but the challenge is very real. Emergency responders can be deployed anywhere, including areas where mobile coverage is limited or unavailable. Even then, they must be able to communicate with their own teams, other emergency services and wider contingency partners.

A broad and demanding operational landscape

Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service is responsible for fire and rescue preparedness across the municipalities of Ringerike and Hole. Its role is to protect life, health, the environment and property across a varied operational area that includes urban environments, local communities and extensive rural districts.

This diverse landscape brings communication challenges. The service must be ready to respond to major incidents in areas with uneven network coverage, while coordinating closely with other emergency services and civil preparedness organisations.

Effective response depends on reliable communication. Incident planning, decision-making, digital mapping, video support and real-time collaboration all rely on stable connectivity. As a result, more emergency organisations are recognising the importance of communications systems that can function independently of mobile networks.

– We wanted a more robust and reliable communications solution, particularly in areas with weak or no mobile coverage. During major incidents, we depend on access to digital maps, incident plans, video solutions, collaboration with other agencies, and general internet access in our incident command vehicle. We also wanted a solution that could serve as redundancy if the mobile network were to fail, says Mathias Skaugrud, Fire Inspector at Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service.

Connectivity independent of local infrastructure

Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service needed a solution that could be adapted to its operational needs, especially for its incident command vehicle. The ability to communicate via satellite when required was a key requirement. A Starlink solution delivered by Space Norway emerged as a strong match.

– The main reasons were coverage, capacity, mobility and ease of implementation. Starlink gave us the opportunity to establish stable internet access almost entirely independent of local infrastructure. The solution appeared both forward-looking and flexible, while also being relatively quick to deploy, Mr Skaugrud explains.

The installation of the satellite solution in the incident command vehicle was completed smoothly.

– The installation process was fairly straightforward and well organised. It did, of course, require some planning in terms of placement, power supply and integration into the vehicle, but overall the process went smoothly. Cooperation with the supplier worked well, and the solution was quickly brought into operational use, he adds.

Mathias Skaugrud, Terje Reginiussen, Jostein Dahl and Kjetil Solheim — all incident commanders, from left to right.
Photo: Mathias Skaugrud, Terje Reginiussen, Jostein Dahl and Kjetil Solheim — all incident commanders at Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service, from left to right.

Improving operational capacity and flexibility

Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service has already seen clear benefits from the satellite communications solution. According to Mr Skaugrud, it has made daily operations easier and strengthened the service’s overall response capability.

– We are very pleased with the solution. It has largely lived up to our expectations in terms of stability, speed and availability. We find that it gives us greater operational capacity and increased flexibility during incidents. We have already benefited from the solution during both training exercises and real-life call-outs, he says.

– The ability to maintain stable internet access from the incident command vehicle makes it easier to retrieve information, share situational awareness and collaborate with other agencies in real time. This contributes to better situational understanding and more effective incident management, Mr Skaugrud adds.

A solution for the future

For emergency preparedness organisations, resilient connectivity is becoming increasingly important. Modern emergency vehicles and equipment rely more heavily on network access than ever before, while the ability to remain connected during uncertain or high-pressure situations is now central to effective response.

When asked whether he would recommend the Starlink solution from Space Norway to other organisations, Mr Skaugrud is clear.

– Yes, we would absolutely recommend the solution to other emergency preparedness organisations that require stable and mobile communications. The key benefits are high availability, rapid establishment of communications and internet access, independence from local mobile coverage, and greater resilience in emergency preparedness, he says.

– At the same time, we are increasingly dependent on a stable network in uncertain times, when mobile networks may at times fail and we still need to remain connected, concludes Mathias Skaugrud, Fire Inspector at Ringerike Fire and Rescue Service.

Photo: When emergency services need assistance
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Press release

Maritime Domain Awareness

Rheinmetall and Space Norway cooperate on Maritime Space Surveillance

The partnership between Rheinmetall AG and Space Norway AS is particularly focused on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).

Rheinmetall AG and Space Norway AS have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further expand their cooperation in the field of space-based capabilities for defence applications. The partnership is particularly focused on Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).

The agreement builds on the existing exchange between the two companies and establishes a framework for evaluating joint opportunities. Specifically, the cooperation covers satellite communications, sensors and mission systems, as well as their integration into higher-level command and information systems. The objective is to develop future capabilities for customers in Germany and, in the longer term, in other allied nations.

At the core of the memorandum is the planned integration of Space Norway’s C-band SAR satellite capabilities. Through the SPOCK 1 programme, Germany already possesses a proven and operationally tested high resolution X band SAR capability, delivered by Rheinmetall ICEYE Space Solutions based on ICEYE’s leading satellite technology. From its site in Neuss, Rheinmetall offers Germany’s largest industrial production capacity for SAR satellite systems. Space Norway’s C-band SAR capability complements this system in a targeted manner. While X band SAR enables high-resolution surveillance of individual targets, C-band SAR provides broad-area coverage of extensive maritime regions. Both frequency bands are complementary and, together, are essential for comprehensive maritime domain awareness.

Continuous and actionable maritime domain awareness in the Arctic and the North Atlantic is becoming an increasingly critical operational requirement for modern armed forces. In an environment characterised by vast distances, challenging weather conditions and growing strategic importance, timely access to reliable information is crucial. The ability to continuously monitor large maritime areas, detect relevant activities at an early stage, and rapidly transform data into actionable intelligence is essential for situational awareness, decision superiority and effective operational action.

Against the backdrop of the Hansa Agreement between Germany and Norway, which provides a framework for deeper bilateral cooperation in the development of sovereign and future oriented defence capabilities, this partnership carries particular significance. In this context, space based surveillance systems and integrated downstream services can make an important contribution to closing existing capability gaps in the High North and the North Atlantic. Strategic autonomy in the maritime and space domains is no longer merely a long term objective but is increasingly becoming an immediate prerequisite for credible security preparedness and resilient alliance defence.

“This Memorandum of Understanding is a milestone in bringing together our complementary space capabilities and developing tailored solutions for demanding customer requirements,” said Timo Haas, CEO of Rheinmetall’s Digital Systems Division. “Our focus is on close, practical cooperation in reconnaissance and maritime surveillance, as well as providing the necessary infrastructure.”

Morten Tengs, CEO of Space Norway
Morten Tengs
CEO, Space Norway

“This agreement provides a clear foundation for jointly exploring how our satellite capabilities and infrastructure resources can contribute to existing and future operational solutions. We see particularly strong potential in large area maritime surveillance and in the development of corresponding sovereign capabilities.”

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742

Odd-Harald Hagen

Title
Vice President Defence Market & Sales
Tel
+47 916 55 725
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Customer success story

Emergency communication at Sør Øst 110

When time is precious, and reliable emergency communication is key!

Sør-Øst 110 - Emergency Preparedness Solution
Photo: Mikael Olsson, technical manager, and Tim Vold Wessel, Fagutvikler at Sør-Øst 110.

You never know when the next accident or catastrophic event will occur. But do you know whom to call when it happens?

No, it’s not likely the “Ghostbusters”, but the emergency number. The emergency phone numbers are one of the first phone numbers you learn by heart as a child. And you expect that someone will take your call and come to the rescue. The real challenge is making sure the emergency call center is always there for everyone, even if parts of the infrastructure fail. The emergency call center also relies on stable Internet and communication infrastructure to function internally and externally.

Emergency communication

Sør-Øst 110 Interkommunalt Selskap (IKS) is one of Norway’s largest 110 emergency call centres, coordinating responses for approximately 715,000 inhabitants and more than 50 fire stations in South-East Norway. In 2024 alone, they handled close to 66,000 calls and logged around 32,000 incidents.

With an ever-increasing reliance on digital tools and communication solutions, Sør-Øst 110 IKS identified a clear vulnerability: the loss of internet access could directly affect their ability to handle incidents safely and efficiently.

They therefore began looking for emergency communication solutions that do not depend on traditional terrestrial networks. The key goal was to establish multiple independent carriers. They wanted to reduce the risk that a single failure (for example in fibre or mobile networks) would lead to loss of connectivity, and last but not least, ensure that the 110 centre can handle both everyday incidents and major crises even if parts of the infrastructure fail.

 

Petter Evjen Aamodt, Head of Operations Department at Sør-Øst 110
Petter Evjen Aamodt
Head of Operations Department, Sør-Øst 110

– With an ever-increasing dependence on digital solutions, the need for robust and available internet access has also become critical for our emergency preparedness. This led us to look for alternative solutions that are not dependent on the traditional terrestrial network, says Petter Evjen Aamodt, Head of Operations Department of Sør-Øst 110.

The search and rescue for a solution

Sør-Øst 110 IKS then started their search for a solution that could fit their needs. Their criteria were clear.

–  It was important for us to have a Norwegian partner who keeps data in the country and with whom we can communicate closely with. In some cases, with large foreign players, you often become just one of many customers, which does not work when you deliver a society critical emergency communication system, comments Petter Evjen Aamodt.

Sør-Øst 110 started their search and came up with a couple of partners that could check off their criteria list. The solution was in reach.

– The collaboration with Space Norway and Emcom has been crucial for us in this process, both in terms of technology and in tailoring the solution to our operational and emergency preparedness needs. It was important for us to have a Norwegian partner who keeps data in the country and with whom we can communicate closely.

Sør-Øst 110 - Emergency Preparedness Solution
Photo: Mikael Olsson, technical manager, and Tim Vold Wessel, Fagutvikler at Sør-Øst 110.

A crucial role

At their office, Sør-Øst 110 IKS demonstrated a MultiWAN setup that clearly reflects a strong understanding of emergency preparedness for connectivity. The configuration includes multiple independent communication paths, both satellite-based and terrestrial, in addition to their primary fibre connection.

They have clearly understood the need for redundant, resilient connectivity to support emergency communication. The combined throughput from these alternative connections far exceeds what they have via primary fibre alone.

Interestingly, the building is located in a 5G blind spot in the middle of Tønsberg. Even there, satellite communication plays a crucial role in maintaining their emergency preparedness. Together, these satellite services and terrestrial networks form a resilient emergency preparedness satcom layer that protects Sør-Øst 110 IKS against loss of connectivity in critical situations.

Sør-Øst 110

Starlink Mini: High performance and portability

Sør-Øst 110 IKS were particularly impressed with the performance of the Starlink Mini terminal:

  1. More than 200 Mbps down and 40 Mbps/20 up from an iPad-sized satellite terminal, based on their own tests
  2. Starlink Mini is perfect for portable solutions due to;
    • Compact size
    • Simplicity and ease of use
    • Long battery life and portability

For first responders and emergency services, portability and long battery life are key for field emergency preparedness.

Emergency Communication Solution

Smooth installation

Your purchase was made, but did you get what you bought? Sør-Øst 110 was not only happy with the product, even the installation went “swimmingly”, literally.

– The installation day brought sleet, rain and cold wind. Even so, two very skilled installers from Space Norway showed up, and the work was completed in a short time. The equipment was mounted and cables pulled efficiently. The installers were professionally strong, thorough – and not least very pleasant. They were getting the job done without complaints in terrible weather was noticed and greatly appreciated and stands out as one of the clear highlights of the project, says Mikael Olsson, technical manager at Sør-Øst 110.

Emergency Communication Solution

A lifesaving solution

If parts of the infrastructure fail, it is essential that the public still can manage to get in touch with the emergency call center. Sør-Øst 110 are happy with the communication solution they got from Space Norway.

– The solution gives us the stability and availability we depend on in our emergency preparedness and our emergency communication. The collaboration with Space Norway and Emcom has been decisive for us in this process. We are very satisfied with the solution we have purchased. Our solution consists of several different types of bearers. This includes VSAT, says Mikael Olsson.

Would you recommend our solution to others, and if so – what would you highlight as the most important benefits?

– Close and good communication with Space Norway and Emcom has been crucial in adapting the solution to our needs. As technical manager in Sør-Øst 110 IKS, I recommend Space Norway as a partner. A Norwegian provider of satellite communication offers both security and unique possibilities, says Mikael Olsson.

The products from Space Norway are now in use by Sør-Øst 110. If Sør-Øst 110 have experienced any “ghost calls” are not known. But if they do in the future, maybe – just maybe – they will consider calling the Ghostbusters.

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Press release

Business and government continuity

Space Norway Launches Emergency Preparedness Solution for Enterprises and Government

Image depicts Jan Hetland explaining Emergency Preparedness Solution
Jan Hetland, Director Data Services at Space Norway

Oslo, Norway — Space Norway has launched its Emergency Preparedness solution, designed to ensure business and government continuity during outages of terrestrial communications. As the sole owner and operator of satellites in Scandinavia, Space Norway is positioning the service as a key contribution to digital resilience across Norway and the wider Nordic region.

The service addresses a common vulnerability in enterprise and public-sector IT environments: reliance on a single terrestrial internet connection. By integrating satellite-based connectivity into customers’ core networks, the solution enables seamless failover to an alternative internet service when primary infrastructure is disrupted.

“Extreme weather events and growing geopolitical uncertainty have highlighted how exposed critical digital infrastructure can be,” said Jan Hetland, Director Data Services at Space Norway.

“Our service ensures organisations remain connected when terrestrial networks fail by adding resilience into their IT infrastructure. Resilience, in this context, is not about digital maturity. It is about network diversity. The conversation has moved from if disruption will occur to when.”

Emergency Preparedness

The Emergency Preparedness solution is not limited to a single satellite system. It combines Low Earth Orbit (LEO) services from Starlink, with Space Norway’s own Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellites, including THOR 7 and, from 2028, THOR 8. LEO provides high bandwidth and low latency, while the GEO component is a sovereign solution with full national control of both space and ground infrastructure. This hybrid approach also delivers redundancy should either link be degraded.

The service is primarily aimed at onshore enterprises and government entities, where demand for satellite-based backup connectivity is increasing. In scenarios such as flooding or landslides, both common occurrences in Norway’s terrain, fibre cable and power lines are vulnerable to simultaneous disruption, leaving satellite connectivity as the only practical communications alternative.

Capacity is reserved for Emergency Preparedness customers, and services are always on, fully integrated, and supported by Space Norway’s 24/7 Network Operations Centre. Customers receive training as part of installation and are encouraged to regularly test the solution to ensure operational readiness.

The service is already live in Norway and we are working to make the service available in other Nordic countries.

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742

Commercial inquiries

Jan Hetland

Title
Director, Data Services, Space Norway.
Tel
+47 958 71 588

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Press release

Successful Launch of Mimir-1 and AISSat-4 satellites

Space Norway’s in-orbit laboratory is now opened – company confirms successful launch

The Mimir-1 and AISSat-4 satellites were launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Monday 31st March at 13:02 CEST. Mimir-1 is owned and operated by Space Norway, while AISSat-4 is owned by the Norwegian Coastal Administration and operated by Space Norway.

Both satellites were deployed at the correct altitudes for these low Earth orbit missions, at approximately 500 km and 600 km respectively, and contact has been successfully established with both spacecraft.

The first signals from Mimir-1 were received at 16:50 CET on Monday afternoon. At that time, the satellite was passing over the South Pole and its signals were captured by the Troll ground station in Antarctica. Using Space Norway’s multi-orbit capability, the signals were relayed to the THOR 7 satellite in geostationary orbit at an altitude of around 36,000 km. From there, they were downlinked to the company’s spaceport in Nittedal and routed to the operations centre at Skøyen in Oslo. Both the solar panels and the Yagi antenna have been successfully deployed.

“We now have our own laboratory in space. I am extremely proud of the team that has made this possible. Two dedicated groups, each responsible for one of the satellites, have both done an outstanding job, and this confirms that Space Norway possesses world-class expertise in satellite operations,” says Marte Kalveland, Director Earth Observation and Innovation at Space Norway.

 

Mimir 1 Lift off from Vandenberg

Signals from AISSat-4 were received at 14:14 CET. At that time, AISSat-4 was passing over the High North, and the signals were captured by the ground station in Vardø.

“These have been some very exciting days and hours. Even though we have carried out similar operations several times before, a launch is always a special moment,” says Ivar Spydevold, CEO of StatSat. “We now look forward to further strengthening our delivery to the Norwegian Coastal Administration, supporting its important societal mission of monitoring maritime traffic in Norwegian waters,” he adds.

The Mimir-1 satellite will serve as an in-orbit test platform. The coming days will be devoted to around-the-clock operation to stabilise the platform. A few weeks after that, we expect operations to start. For AISSat-4, a few days of testing will be followed by delivery of AIS-signals to the Norwegian Coastal Administration.

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742
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Press release

Mimir 1

Space Norway Launches Mimir 1 – Our Lab in Space

This is an illustration of Mimir 1 in space.

Rocket science for everyone? Almost. Space Norway is opening access to in-orbit testing with its new satellite, Mimir 1, launching on Sunday 29 March from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. More than a satellite, Mimir-1 is a laboratory in space, designed to test new concepts in Earth observation, communications, and navigation and accelerate innovation through flexible, cost-effective access to orbit. 

Mimir 1 is Space Norway’s first in-house developed satellite, designed, owned, and operated by the company. It was built and integrated by OHB Sweden, with both payloads developed in Norway. 

“Mimir 1 represents a significant milestone for Space Norway. We are excited to see how the platform will enable new capabilities and deliver value not only for us, but for partners across the space sector,” said Marte Kalveland, Director of Earth Observation and Innovation at Space Norway. 

Mimir 1 - Space Norway Satellite

Space Norway plans to make capacity available on Mimir 1 to other space industry stakeholders as well as academia. The satellite has therefore been designed for flexibility and ease of use, enabling more companies to test promising ideas in space. The design, construction and launch of satellites is time consuming, costly and requires specialised expertise. By booking capacity on board Mimir 1, companies with strong ideas for space-based services gain the opportunity to test their concepts before investing in their own satellite development and production. 

Mimir Payload 

The primary payload on board is a Software Defined Radio (SDR) with several different antennas covering a wide frequency range. What makes Mimir 1 unique is that it carries an onboard computer that can be programmed from the ground while the satellite is in orbit. 

For traditional satellites, mission tasks are defined prior to launch and cannot be changed once in orbit. Mimir 1 takes a different approach, serving as a development platform rather than a conventional operational satellite. Flexibility and rapid development are central to the project, enabling Space Norway to support the development of new services and more advanced, better-defined payloads in the future. 

The first experiment focuses on satellite-based Internet of Things (IoT) services. Space Norway will test IoT services in new frequency bands on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA). The Mimir project is developing a user interface for planning different types of experiments involving both the satellite and ground terminals. 

The secondary payload on board is a VDES (VHF Data Exchange System) communications system, developed for data exchange between vessels and satellites or coastal stations. The difference between AIS (Automatic Identification System) and VDES is that VDES enables two-way communication, whereas AIS is limited to one-way transmission. The Mimir payload is expected to make a significant contribution to ESA’s multinational VDES cooperation project. 

About Mimir 1 and AISSat-4 

Mimir 1 will operate in low Earth orbit and will be separated from the launch vehicle at an altitude of approximately 600 km. The satellite weighs 93 kg, has a wingspan of 2.3 metres and a planned operational lifetime of seven years. 

At the same launch, the AISSat4 satellite will also be sent into orbit on the same rocket from Vandenberg. This satellite will be operated by StatSat, a subsidiary of Space Norway. AISSat4 is owned by the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket), and StatSat currently operates four other satellites on behalf of them and the Norwegian Space Agency. 

Follow the launch of both satellites at 12:20 CET: 

www.launch.spacenorway.com 

The above link will be active closer to launch.

AISSat4: 

  • Time from launch to separation: 55 minutes, separation at approximately 13:22 
  • Time from separation to first ping (signal from the satellite): 1 hour 

Mimir1: 

  • Time from launch to separation: 2 hours 18 minutes, separation at approximately 14:48 
  • Time from separation to first possible ping: 1 hour 16 minutes, at approximately 16:04 

As always, satellite launches may be delayed in time and the timings may change 

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742
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Press release

Space Norway AS and Forsvarsbygg sign cooperation agreement for Jan Mayen cable landing station

Foto: Camilla Mathiesen, Fung. Direktør Forsvarsbygg Og Morten Tengs, Konsernsjef I Space Norway

Space Norway has signed a contract with Forsvarsbygg (the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency) for support in constructing a cable landing station on Jan Mayen. In addition, Forsvarsbygg will assist with the transport of personnel and equipment to the island, as well as with all excavation works. The landing station is a key element of the Arctic Way subsea fibre-optic connection from mainland Norway to Jan Mayen and Svalbard.

20 January 2026 – Forsvarsbygg is already in the process of constructing a new station for the Norwegian Armed Forces on Jan Mayen. Forsvarsbygg’s contractor, Hæhre Arctic, will support Space Norway with the cable landing station while they are present on the island.

 

From CYFOR´s base at Jan Mayen. Foto: Forsvaret

“We see significant synergies in carrying out this work now, while Hæhre and Forsvarsbygg are on site. Without them, the project would have been far more expensive and difficult to implement. Our open dialogue and solution-oriented co-operation with Forsvarsbygg is crucial to making this possible,” says Pia Bruhn, Project Manager for Arctic Way at Space Norway.

Forsvarsbygg’s construction project is one of the most complex currently under way in Norway. Jan Mayen is located one thousand kilometres from the mainland and is exposed to extremely harsh weather conditions. Everything that is built there must withstand snowstorms, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. There is no harbour, quay infrastructure or proper roads.

“For Space Norway, it has been important to coordinate the landing of Arctic Way on Jan Mayen with Forsvarsbygg’s construction project. The island’s unique location presents major logistical challenges, and it is therefore very encouraging to see that the cooperation with Forsvarsbygg is working so well,” says Morten Tengs, CEO of Space Norway.

“We are proud of our project on Jan Mayen. It is important for Norway. We are pleased that we can support and collaborate with Space Norway,” says Acting Director of Forsvarsbygg, Camilla Mathiesen.

At present, there is no subsea fibre-optic connection to Jan Mayen, and communication with the island is via satellite. Space Norway has been commissioned by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries to establish a subsea fibre-optic connection from the mainland to Jan Mayen and Svalbard. From a branching unit in the Norwegian Sea, one spur will run to Jan Mayen and another to Svalbard. Space Norway is the main contractor and is managing the establishment project on behalf of the Norwegian State.

All contracting works must be completed before the subsea fibre-optic cable arrives for installation in the summer of 2027.

For further information about the project:

The Government intends to establish a new submarine fibre-optic connection to Svalbard and Jan Mayen, press release from the Government dated 14 February 2025: “Regjeringen vil etablere nytt sjøfibersamband til Svalbard og Jan Mayen” – regjeringen.no

Proposition 47 S (2024–2025) Amendments to the 2025 Central Government Budget under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Defence (new submarine fibre-optic connection to Svalbard and Jan Mayen).

Facts about the project:

The route forms part of Arctic Way, the world’s northernmost submarine fibre-optic network, which connects mainland Norway to Svalbard in order to secure critical digital connectivity to the Arctic regions.

  • Route: Norway, Jan Mayen and Svalbard, with landing stations in Bodø, on Jan Mayen and in Longyearbyen, Svalbard
  • Planned completion: 2028
  • Total length: 2,350 km
  • Location: Between 67°N and 78°N
Torbjørn Kjosvold, Forsvaret, Flystripa Jan Mayen 1

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742

Commercial Contact at Space Norway

Pia Birgitte Bruhn

Title
Prosjektleder Arctic Way
Tel
+47 984 46 626

Forsvarsbygg

Trond Enemo

Title
Senior Communication Advisor
Tel
+47 481 95 682
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Press release

Space Norway AS and Seaworks Kabel AS sign subsea fibre contract

Rune Jensen Director, Subsea Cable Systems Space Norway AS and Stian Hokland Head of department Fiber, Seaworks Kabel AS

Space Norway AS has awarded Seaworks Kabel AS the contract to install a subsea fibre-optic cable between Bodø and Fauske. The cable, which is being produced locally in Rognan, will be collected there and installed along the Bodø–Fauske route by Seaworks Kabel AS. The objective is to complete the installation by the end of 2026 or in the first quarter of 2027.

14 January 2026 – The new fibre connection will strengthen the digital infrastructure in Nordland. This fibre link forms part of Arctic Way, the world’s northernmost subsea fibre-optic cable network, which connects mainland Norway with Svalbard and Jan Mayen.

 

Fjordkabel_Foto_Seaworks Kabel AS

-Seaworks is an excellent choice for subsea fibre cable installation in the Salten Fjord, with its extensive experience from similar projects. Since 2003, Space Norway has used Seaworks as a subcontractor for inspection and maintenance of parts of the existing Svalbard cables. Based on many years of successful cooperation, we are confident in our choice of Seaworks to deliver this project,” says Pia Birgitte Bruhn, Project Manager for Arctic Way at Space Norway AS.

The subsea fibre cable will provide a foundation for robust solutions benefiting both businesses and the public sector, locally and nationally.

“Seaworks Kabel is proud of the confidence Space Norway has shown in us. We are pleased that our long-standing collaboration is being continued,” says Stian Hokland, Head of department Fibre, Seaworks Kabel AS.

The project represents an important step towards securing robust, future-proof digital infrastructure in Northern Norway. Through this delivery, Space Norway AS and Seaworks Kabel AS are helping to build a platform for future growth and innovation in the region, while also highlighting the importance of Norwegian expertise and technology in global communications solutions.

Project facts

  • Part of Arctic Way: The route is a section of Arctic Way, the world’s northernmost subsea fibre network, connecting mainland Norway to Svalbard to secure critical digital connectivity to the Arctic regions
  • Route: Bodø–Fauske, approx. 45 km to be installed subsea
  • Cable type: Subsea fibre-optic cable with double armouring (96 fibres)
  • Cable-laying vessel: Fjordkabel or Fjord Connector operated by Seaworks Kabel AS
  • Manufacturing: Nexans Rognan, Norway
  • Planned installation: 2026 or Q1 2027
Fjord Connector_Foto_Seaworks Kabel AS

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742

Commercial Contact at Space Norway

Pia Birgitte Bruhn

Title
Prosjektleder Arctic Way
Tel
+47 984 46 626

Seaworks Kabel

Stian Hokland

Title
Head of department Fiber
Tel
+47 909 21 775

About Seaworks Kabel

For nearly 40 years, Seaworks Kabel has been a leading company in Norway for the installation of subsea cables. Since its inception, the company has installed more than 2,500 subsea cables and carried out a large number of subsea cable repairs. With our own cable-laying vessels, we possess the equipment, personnel and experience required to install all types of subsea cables.

For more information, visit https://seaworkskabel.no/

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Nexans and Space Norway secure future-ready fibre link between Bodø and Fauske

Nexans and Space Norway secure future-ready fibre link between Bodø and Fauske
Foto: Jon Enok Seip, Nexans og Jens Olav Frorud, Space Norway

Space Norway has awarded Nexans Norway AS the contract to manufacture an advanced subsea fibre-optic cable that will strengthen the digital infrastructure in Nordland. The cable, which will be produced at Nexans’ plant in Rognan, is designed to provide a secure and reliable subsea fibre connection between Bodø and Fauske – a critical link for the region’s future communications.

18 December 2025 – “This fibre link forms part of Arctic Way, the world’s northernmost subsea fibre-optic cable network, connecting mainland Norway with Svalbard. We are very pleased to award Nexans Norway and their plant in Rognan the contract to produce the fibre cable that will be installed in their local area. The plant is recognised for its expertise in the production of subsea fibre cables and systems, and we look forward to their continued co-operation,” says Pia Birgitte Bruhn, Project Manager at Space Norway AS.

 

Illustration image: Rognan quay

Robust technology for demanding conditions

Through this project, Space Norway is further strengthening access to modern technology and establishing a solid foundation for robust solutions that will benefit both the private and public sectors.

The cable to be delivered by Nexans is a double-armoured subsea fibre-optic cable. This design provides additional protection against external impacts and ensures a long service life under demanding seabed conditions.

“We are proud to supply a locally produced Norwegian subsea fibre-optic cable to Space Norway AS for a project of this scale, located effectively in the backyard of Nexans Rognan. This project is of significant importance for digital development in Nordland. Our plant in Rognan has extensive experience with complex deliveries in Norway and internationally, and this project further confirms our position as a leading player in the development and production of fibre-optic submarine cables,” says Stian Furuheim Johansen, Sales Manager Fiber at Nexans Norway AS.

The project represents a significant step towards securing a robust and future-proof digital infrastructure in Northern Norway. With this delivery, Nexans and Space Norway AS are contributing to the development of a platform for future growth and innovation in the region, while underlining the importance of Norwegian expertise and technology in global communication solutions.

Project facts

  • The route is part of Arctic Way, the world’s northernmost subsea fibre network, which will connect mainland Norway to Svalbard to secure critical digital connectivity to the Arctic regions
  • Route: Bodø–Fauske, approximately 45 km to be laid subsea
  • Cable type: Double-armoured subsea fibre-optic cable (96 fibres)
  • Production: Nexans Rognan, Norway
  • Planned delivery: 2026

Press contact at Space Norway

Trude Larstad

Title
Chief Communications Officer (CCO)
Tel
+47 936 67 742

Commercial Contact at Space Norway

Pia Birgitte Bruhn

Title
Prosjektleder Arctic Way
Tel
+47 984 46 626

Nexans Power Grid & Connect Nordics 

Kristin Wilberg Halvorsen

Title
Acting Marketing and Communication manager
Tel
+47 905 50 494

About Nexans

For over a century, Nexans has played a pivotal role in the world’s electrification and is committed to electrifying the future. With approximately 28,500 employees across 41 countries, the Group is paving the way for a new world of safe, sustainable electricity accessible to everyone.
In 2024, Nexans Group generated €7.1 billion in what is referred to as standard sales (actual revenue is higher, but the standard term relates to a fixed copper value). The Group is a leader in the design and manufacturing of cable systems and services within four main areas: Power Generation & Transmission, Grid (Cables for DSOs), and Connect (Cables for various buildings).
Nexans was the first company in its industry to establish a foundation supporting sustainable initiatives and providing energy access to vulnerable communities. The Group is recognized on the CDP Climate Change A List and is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 in line with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

For more information, visit http://www.nexans.no