24.12.2023

The contingent participated in detailed guided tours of both Andoya Spaceport and Andoya airport from Andoya Space and Isar Aerospace, which unveiled their newly finished pad and satellite, assembly, integration and test (AIT) facilities and informed the delegation regarding future development plans and opportunities for collaboration. His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway officially opened the Andoya spaceport immediately after the visit by the U.S. contingent.

In a significant step towards international collaboration in space, Major General John Olson, Mobilization Assistant to the Chief of Space Operations at the U.S. Space Force, recently led a delegation to the Spaceport Norway conference in Oslo. This event marked a pivotal moment for the U.S. Space Force and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) as they engaged in crucial dialogues about the future of space collaboration and innovation.

Strengthening U.S.-Norwegian Space Relations:
Major General Olson, in his keynote speech, emphasized the importance of U.S.-Norwegian partnerships, focusing on resilient architectures, responsive space infrastructure, and robust partnerships for global mission success. He noted that one of the three primary lines of effort for the United States Space Force Chief of Space Operations is "partnering to win." This concept resonated deeply with Norwegian partners and stakeholders, underlining the mutual benefits of such collaborations.

Dialogue on Space Infrastructure and Security:
The conference featured panel discussions on critical topics like "Space Infrastructure: The Frontline of Security and Emerging Threats." Olson's participation in these discussions highlighted the evolving challenges and opportunities in space security and infrastructure.

Merrick Garb, from the Space Force's Global Partnerships Directorate, shared insights on "Race Against Time: Strategies for Faster Innovation." This topic is particularly relevant as the space industry rapidly evolves, demanding quicker innovation cycles.

Engaging with Norwegian Government and Industry:
The U.S. delegation met with various Norwegian government and industry representatives. These meetings covered a broad spectrum, including space, technology, data/AI, innovation, and security. These engagements allowed the U.S. Space Force to identify opportunities for global commercial partnerships and illuminated the potential for closer strategic, operational, and tactical ties.

Visits and Lessons in Norway:
The delegation visited Bodo, engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority and Nordland County Council. Discussions centered on space traffic management, launch and re-entry licensing, and dynamic space and ground operations. A tour of the Norwegian Aviation Museum provided context on Norway's history in aviation and aerospace, sparking discussions on future collaborations.

Andoya Spaceport: A Beacon of Opportunity:
A major highlight was touring the Andoya Spaceport, one of only two orbital launch facilities in Europe and the only one without land overflight concerns. This spaceport, with a history of sounding rocket launches and plans for its first orbital launch in early 2024, presents unique opportunities for collaboration.

The U.S. delegation's visit coincided with the official opening of the spaceport by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, further emphasizing the facility's importance in the global space landscape.

Future Collaborations and Mutual Benefits:
In summarizing the trip, Major General Olson said, "Norway is a trusted and vitally important partner, NATO ally and Nordic leader with an important portfolio of capabilities." He emphasized the trip as a bold first step in a series of engagements aimed at strengthening future space collaboration.

The discussions with the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, Innovation Norway, Business Norway, Andoya Spaceport, and other organizations highlighted the potential for partnerships that offer mutual benefits and contribute to a secure and sustainable future in space.

Per Niederbach, Executive Vice President of the Division Trade and Investment at Innovation Norway, viewed these engagements as a significant opportunity for the Norwegian space and defense industry, potentially catalyzing the rapid development of Norway's new space economy.

This series of meetings and discussions between the U.S. Space Force, DIU, and Norwegian counterparts signifies a growing recognition of the strategic importance of space and the need for international collaboration in this domain. It sets a precedent for future partnerships that combine innovation, commercial opportunities, and strategic alliances to enhance global space capabilities.

Quelle: SD