- Collaboration targets secure, interoperable battlefield networks; scope includes unmanned systems, sensors and EU Defence Fund projects.
- Move reflects wider European defence-5G momentum, from Nokia’s work with blackned in Germany to Kongsberg’s JV with Thales.
What happened: Partners align on deployable 5G
Nokia said the MoU with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace combines its 4G/5G and private-wireless portfolio with Kongsberg’s tactical comms to deliver secure, resilient field connectivity for defence organisations and allies. Early focus is on simplifying deployable 5G; the roadmap also references integrating unmanned systems and sensors, plus participation in European Defence Fund initiatives such as 5G COMPAD and FACT.
The announcement links directly to Kongsberg’s defence communications pedigree and to official EU documentation on the 5G communications programme.
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Why it’s important
Defence users want commercial-grade bandwidth with mission assurance. Nokia says it will explore 6G “network-as-a-sensor” concepts to boost situational awareness, while the EU programmes cited aim to standardise testing and interoperability for cyber-physical systems. If realised, this could shorten deployment cycles and allow coalition forces to field interoperable, software-defined networks faster.
Yet questions remain. Procurement and export controls, spectrum access, crypto/interoperability baselines, and cyber-hardening will decide whether pilots translate to doctrine. Europe’s market is moving—Nokia has separately teamed with blackned on German tactical networks, and Kongsberg formed a defence-comms JV with Thales—signalling demand but also multiple architectures. Outcomes will hinge on open interfaces, ruggedisation and the ability to integrate radios, satellite and 5G under a single C2 framework.
