As part of its 2025–2036 Long-Term Defence Plan, Norway is evaluating the acquisition of long-range uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) for maritime surveillance missions. U.S.-based defense giants Northrop Grumman and General Atomics are competing for this critical tender. A limited number of high-endurance drones, expected to be deployed between 2029 and 2032, would provide persistent surveillance capabilities over the Arctic region. No flight tests have been scheduled yet, and no final decision has been announced, as the Norwegian Armed Forces continue their concept evaluation process in cooperation with the Air Force.
The drones will be stationed at Andøya Air Station, located 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. Previously slated for closure, the base will instead be developed into a permanent hub for drone and space operations.
Two Major Contenders: Triton and SeaGuardian
Northrop Grumman’s MQ-4C Triton falls under the high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) category. Already operational with the U.S. Navy, Triton offers 24/7 maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. It is fully interoperable with the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, which Norway already operates. This compatibility is vital for monitoring Norway’s vast maritime domain.
General Atomics’ contender, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian, is a medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone. Equipped with advanced radar, electronic support systems, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, and the Link 16 targeting network, SeaGuardian offers a versatile solution for both surface and sub-surface ISR missions. Its endurance exceeds 30 hours and it can operate in adverse weather conditions.
Comparisons and Strategic Dilemma
Northrop Grumman executive Jane Bishop argued that SeaGuardian’s lower operating altitude makes it more vulnerable to enemy systems, citing past drone shootdowns, including those by the Houthis in Yemen. General Atomics has not directly responded to this claim. However, independent assessments point out that even HALE-class Tritons have been targeted in the past—such as the 2019 Iranian downing of a U.S. Navy BAMS-D drone.
Both platforms can operate alongside the P-8A. SeaGuardian also supports a wide array of missions including search and rescue, humanitarian relief, mine countermeasures, over-the-horizon targeting, and law enforcement. Its Detect and Avoid system, compliant with NATO standards, allows it to operate safely in mixed civil-military airspace.
Norway’s Arctic Vision
Norway’s long-term defense goals place strong emphasis on boosting situational awareness in the far north. Planned investments in new satellites, a P-8 simulator, enhanced command infrastructure, and the expansion of Andøya Air Station all serve this vision. Oslo’s recent $620 million commitment to a UK-led maritime drone program further highlights its dedication to international defense-industrial cooperation.
This drone investment will mark a major leap forward in the country’s digital-era Arctic defense strategy.
