Norway Outlines Twin-Track Build Plan for Project 1118 Standardised Vessel Fleet

Strategic Fleet Modernisation

Norway has announced plans to prioritise the procurement of the larger variant of its new Project 1118 Standardised Vessel (Standardiserte fartøy). The initiative forms a central component of Norway's Long-Term Defence Plan spanning 2025 to 2036, aimed at recapitalising a major portion of the Royal Norwegian Navy (RNoN) and the Norwegian Coast Guard (Kystvakten).

According to the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA), a 'market signalling' activity was launched on 20 October to outline requirements for Norwegian industry. The initial focus will be on delivering 10 ocean-going ships designed to meet the combined operational requirements of both the RNoN and the Kystvakten.

Twin-Track Programme Structure

The broader P1118 Standardised Vessel programme outlines the potential acquisition of up to 28 vessels divided into two distinct variants:

• Larger Ocean-Going Ships: 10 vessels intended for deep-water and extended operations.
• Smaller Coastal Platforms: 18 vessels designated for littoral and coastal missions.

This twin-track approach is intended to replace several existing vessel classes currently in service. By introducing a standardized design, the military aims to establish fleet commonality, simplify maintenance procedures, reduce running costs, and create a more efficient operational profile.

International Collaboration

The programme also incorporates international partnerships, with the United Kingdom and Lithuania joining the initiative:

• United Kingdom: The Royal Navy (RN) has baselined the larger variant to serve as its future mine countermeasures mother ships and is evaluating the design for additional offshore support roles.
• Lithuania: The Lithuanian Navy has selected the ocean-going variant as a preferred option for a new class of multi-role vessels intended to modernise its naval forces after 2030.

Combined, Norway, the UK, and Lithuania share a potential requirement for up to 20 larger variants of the new Standardised Vessel, which is being designed and developed by Kongsberg and Salt Ship Design AS.

Practical Implications and Verification

The announcement highlights a collaborative approach to naval procurement among European allies, focusing on interoperability and shared logistical support. Observers and maritime industry analysts can verify official details and future updates regarding the P1118 programme directly through public announcements issued by the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) and official government defense portals.