Q3 2026: KONGSBERG delivers a strong third quarter with a record-high order backlog
According to KONGSBERG, their market-leading solutions in missiles, air defense, and remote weapon stations are effectively addressing some of the most significant security and defense challenges on a global scale. Simultaneously, the importance of the underwater domain and satellite technology is surging, becoming increasingly vital to national security and resilience.
Continued Demand for KONGSBERG’s Advanced Technology
Throughout the quarter, demand for KONGSBERG’s advanced technology continued to grow. The company’s missiles, air defense systems, and remote weapon stations saw particularly strong interest.
In July, the United States Air Force placed orders for additional Joint Strike Missiles (JSM) to enhance its F-35 fleet. Later in the quarter, KONGSBERG secured a framework agreement with the US Marine Corps for the production and sustainment support of the Naval Strike Missile (NSM). Additionally, in October, Denmark became the seventh nation to announce its plans to procure the JSM for its F-35 fighter aircraft.
KONGSBERG also entered into several significant contracts in the air defense sector, including a NOK 10 billion agreement with Belgium for NASAMS, marking Belgium as the 18th nation to order this system.
Moreover, a contract was signed to deliver remote weapon stations for the Canadian Army’s Armoured Combat Support Vehicle program. These weapon stations are critical components of KONGSBERG’s counter-drone capabilities.
Advancing the Technology Portfolio
The underwater domain is increasingly crucial for national security, safeguarding critical infrastructure, and enhancing maritime domain awareness. With its vast expertise in underwater sensor technologies and autonomous underwater systems, KONGSBERG is well-prepared to respond to the rising demand in this emerging market.
During the third quarter, the U.S. government awarded KONGSBERG a USD 54 million contract focused on advancing autonomous underwater capabilities. Furthermore, U.S. authorities approved KONGSBERG’s acquisition of Sonatech, which will bolster its underwater acoustics proficiency and strengthen its presence in the U.S. market.
In a strategic move earlier in the second quarter, KONGSBERG acquired Zone 5 Technologies, enhancing its missile portfolio with scalable, cost-effective production solutions. In the third quarter, Zone 5 was awarded a USD 65 million contract for a U.S. Navy program, underscoring the technology’s relevance within a market characterized by rising demand.
Record-High Order Backlog Signals Strong Future
KONGSBERG experienced a substantial order intake during the third quarter, amounting to NOK 23.3 billion, compared to NOK 9.5 billion in the same quarter last year, resulting in an impressive book-to-bill ratio of 2.06.
By the conclusion of Q3 2026, KONGSBERG’s order backlog reached NOK 174.2 billion, seeing an increase of NOK 16.7 billion throughout the quarter. Year-to-date, the company has achieved an order intake totaling NOK 67 billion. This record-high order backlog spans multiple years, offering a clear outlook for future developments.
“The current security landscape necessitates that the industry delivers swiftly, reliably, and at scale. With our unprecedented order backlog and sustained strong demand, we are strategically poised to meet the requirements of our customers and allies. In collaboration with our suppliers, we possess the capacity needed to bolster defense capabilities, enhance readiness, and ensure we are prepared for future challenges,” commented Lie.
