VARD and Aas Mek. Verksted AS have signed a letter of intent to explore possible cooperation related to the Norwegian Armed Forces’ procurement of standardized vessels.
The planned procurement covers up to 28 vessels for the Royal Norwegian Navy and the Coast Guard, all intended to be built in Norway. About 18 of the vessels are described as smaller units measuring between 50 m and 70 m in length.
VARD said it has the capacity to build all 28 vessels across its seven shipyards, which can produce 15 ships per year. The company said cooperation with Aas Mek. Verksted AS could support more efficient and robust production of smaller vessels.
The geographical proximity to Vard Langsten is also expected to provide good conditions for sharing expertise, maintaining quality and keeping progress on track for the benefit of the Armed Forces.
Aas Mek. Verksted AS is a family-owned shipyard established in 1911. Its facilities include a covered slipway, a 145 m floating dock with a capacity of 7,500 tonnes, workshops and warehouse facilities.
Chief Executive Officer Øyvind Heggdal said the possible collaboration represents an opportunity for Aas Mek. Verksted AS to enter a new segment with an experienced, reliable, local and international partner. He also said the yard’s slip hall would be well-suited to the Armed Forces’ smaller vessel series.
As part of Fincantieri, VARD has access to expertise in high-complexity vessel construction and defense-sector activity, supported by the group’s experience, financial strength, focus on innovation, and new technological solutions.
