Watchbird® and the German Defense Supplier FFG have signed an offset and collaboration agreement
The Norwegian medical technology company Watchbird® (WB) has signed a pivotal offset and collaboration agreement with the German defence supplier Flensburger Fahrzeugbau Gesellschaft mbH (FFG). The agreement represents a significant step forward in advancing WB´s groundbreaking Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) sensor project and highlights the strategic importance of offset obligations in strengthening Norwegian defence innovation.
FFG, a leading provider of military vehicles and support solutions, has supplied armoured support vehicles to the Norwegian Army. As part of the offset obligations linked to these deliveries, FFG has agreed to support WB´s research and development with a funding contribution of NOK 4.7 million. This partnership underscores FFG’s commitment to fostering technological advancement through industrial collaboration.
Offset obligations require defence suppliers winning contracts to reinvest a portion of the contract’s value in the purchasing country’s industries. This mechanism drives innovation and reinforces the competitiveness of Norwegian defence companies.
The collaboration between WB and FFG has been facilitated by Bertel O. Steen Defense and Security and is based upon an agreement between FFG and the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (FMA). This foundation enables WB to further develop its cutting-edge CBRN early detection technology, addressing CBRN threats.
This agreement is a vital contribution to the continued development of our CBRN sensor project. It is a recognition of the work our team is doing, and we see this as an opportunity to develop our technology on an international stage. The collaboration with FFG provides valuable resources and opens doors to future partnerships within the defence industry. Many thanks to FFG for having faith in our technology and team.
Rune Jomaas, CEO of Watchbird, commented:
WB is developing solutions that enhance the safety, protection and operational readiness of soldiers and personnel within the military, total defence and the civilian society in Norway and abroad. With our vision; “Detect to Protect and Stay Operational,” WB´s innovative technologies on early warning and protection, enable personnel remaining effective in polluted environments where chemical agents and particles are a challenge.
This partnership is a testament to how offset obligations can be leveraged to support Norwegian technology development and generate value both national and internationally. The agreement with FFG signals the potential benefits which can be achieved between German and Norwegian companies within the defence industry.
To learn more about the companies, visit www.watchbird.no or www.ffg-flensburg.de
Contact info:
Sven Jacobsen
Head of Purchasing, FFG
Tel:+494614812283
sven.jacobsen@ffg-flensburg.de