Strengthens Norwegian Footprint in Radar Domain

Thales and Ritek – a former depot-level military workshop in Levanger, Norway, now a part of Scandinavian conglomerate SES37 – announced their intention to collaborate in radar opportunities in Norway on 23 September.

In May, Norway agreed the procurement of five Thales GROUND MASTER 200 multi-mission compact , for which Ritek is to conduct vehicle integration of the counter-battery radars. “Ritek’s collaboration with Thales has developed over the last two years, from initial discussions about integrating the artillery-locating radar on a carrier, to now also include additional collaboration on future projects. The projects we cooperate on are very challenging and will contribute in developing Ritek further as an integration partner for demanding international OEMs, within the defence industry, as well as a new business area for us,” commented Ritek COO, Morten Minsaas.

Nils Toverud, CEO of Thales in Norway, added “Creating a strong footprint in Norway is important for Thales. We are delighted to collaborate with Ritek, a competent and trustworthy partner, with a long history supporting the armed forces and strong commitment to quality and delivering on time – an excellent collaborator.” Thales has 300 employees in Norway, delivering high-grade communications technologies to Norway, NATO and allies, as well as a variety of services and technology solutions, including transport, secure communication, passports, ID-cards, and defence technology.

“We expect both financial and organic growth in addition to export opportunities based on our collaboration with Thales. If we succeed together, we foresee an increase in our staff from the current 55 to close to 70 employees – a significant growth for a regional SME like Ritek. Thales will, through the industrial cooperation ambitions, provide Ritek with know-how and technology transfer,” stated Minsaas.