Finnish vendor Nokia has signed an MoU with Norway's Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace to deliver 5G connectivity for field operations.

The MoU will also explore future technologies such as 6G to boost situational awareness and military readiness.

Norwegian defense technology provider Kongsberg specializes in advanced systems across land, sea, air, and space domains.

As part of the agreement, Nokia will work with Kongsberg to simplify the deployment of 5G in tactical systems, enhancing reliable and interoperable battlefield communications.

Nokia notes the MoU will also explore opportunities around tactical 5G capabilities, integration with unmanned systems and sensors, and participation in European Defense Fund initiatives like 5G COMPAD and the Federated Advanced Cyber Physical Test Range (FACT) program.

Eventually, the two companies will work on future technologies such as 6G, while assessing the integration of Nokia’s 6G “network as a sensor” offering.

"Many of our products in Nokia are inherently dual-use, serving both commercial and military needs. This collaboration with Kongsberg underscores our commitment to providing advanced, secure, and fast 5G mobile networks and integrating Nokia’s Banshee radio portfolio to strengthen operations capabilities for a range of tactical scenarios,” said Giuseppe Targia, head of space and defense at Nokia.

Earlier this week, Nokia unveiled two new advanced tactical communications products, including an upgraded Nokia Banshee 5G tactical radio and a military smartphone.