BAE Systems and Umoe Mandal sign naval pact

BAE Systems and Norway’s Umoe Mandal have signed a new collaboration agreement to expand joint maritime efforts, further deepening the UK-Norway defence relationship and offering new capabilities for both nations’ navies.

The deal, signed in Mandal during an industrial collaboration event attended by British and Norwegian officials and industry partners, builds on over 25 years of cooperation between the two companies. Umoe Mandal already supplies major components for the Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates.

According to Geoff Searle, Future Business Director at BAE Systems Naval Ships: “This Collaboration Agreement enables us to build on our two nations’ military and industrial relationships, and further strengthens our ability to offer advanced maritime capability to the Norwegian and UK navies… with a particular focus on composite structures for the Type 26 frigates and future Commando Boats.”

The agreement includes plans to explore co-development of a new Littoral Strike Craft—a potential game-changer in amphibious operations, which could enhance rapid response and commando capabilities in the maritime domain.

Umoe Mandal CEO Tom Fidjeland described the move as a catalyst for regional growth: “This will enable us to invest further in skills and local jobs in southern Norway.” He added that it supports “future growth and development of our company, through the delivery of further frigate mast structures and collaboration on Commando boats.”

Both companies see the agreement as a strategic step toward enhancing operational interoperability and regional naval capability. The partnership may also support Norway’s future frigate procurement, which could include the Type 26 design already adopted by the UK, Australia, and Canada.

The Type 26 is among the world’s most advanced warships, designed for anti-submarine warfare and high-intensity air defence. The vessels are currently under construction for the Royal Navy, with BAE noting that “sharing build and transition lessons across all three national programmes will benefit all parties in this multinational effort.”

While the new Littoral Strike Craft remains in the conceptual phase, the agreement signals a clear intent from both nations to deepen defence industrial cooperation—enhancing capability, resilience, and regional presence.