In a seismic shift for European defense, Norway’s Kongsberg has partnered with German powerhouses Diehl Defence and MBDA Deutschland to develop the 3SM Tyrfing, a next-generation hypersonic strike missile.

This unprecedented tripartite alliance signals a new era of unified European defense, with a cutting-edge weapon designed to pierce future threats.

A Hypersonic Spear for European Navies

The 3SM Tyrfing promises to be a technological marvel.

Capable of exceeding Mach 0.93 (714 mph or 1,148 km/h), this highly maneuverable missile will streak across vast distances at hypersonic speeds, leaving adversaries with split-second reaction times.

Designed to neutralize emerging surface threats, the Tyrfing will be a game-changer for the Norwegian and German navies, significantly bolstering their existing arsenal of Naval Strike Missiles (NSMs).

“As we have seen over the last 2 years, stand-off weapons are crucial for credible deterrence and defence,” said Thomas Gottschild, Managing Director of MBDA Deutschland. “Joining forces between our companies will strengthen the Norwegian, German, and European armed forces, improving the defence of our home nations.”

This collaborative effort represents a formidable pooling of expertise.

Naval Strike Missile
An NSM launch from USS Coronado (LCS-4) in September 2014. (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

Kongsberg brings its pedigree in developing cutting-edge missile technology, while Diehl Defence boasts a rich heritage in weapon systems engineering. MBDA Deutschland, a European leader in missile design, completes the team with its proven track record in air and sea-launched weaponry.

“We are proud having established a team of the best experts of our companies, who complement each other, trust each other and contribute their individual knowledge and skills,” said Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence. “Together, we will develop a game changer with 3SM that none of us could develop on our own.”

A Long-Term Vision for European Defense Integration

The project is currently in its initial design phase, with an estimated delivery date of 2035.

While specific details remain under wraps, whispers of future iterations and potential exports to allied nations hint at a broader vision for European defense integration.

 

The development of the 3SM Tyrfing marks a watershed moment in European military cooperation. This powerful new missile system promises to bolster the continent’s defenses for years to come, deterring aggression and safeguarding regional security.

Beyond its immediate military applications, the project signifies a maturing European defense industrial base, fostering collaboration and innovation that will undoubtedly ripple outwards, with potential benefits for other sectors as well.

The 3SM Tyrfing isn’t just a weapon; it’s a potent symbol of a more unified and technologically advanced European defense posture.