Join us at naval acquisitions conference

Norway is planning the largest naval acquisition programme in decades. At the same time, the global political situation is tense, creating huge opportunities for the defence industry and other value chains.  Forsvarskonferansen, on 4 February 2026, offers insight into the rapidly evolving defence market and highlights opportunities for businesses in Vestland and beyond to position themselves in one of the most dynamic arenas of national investment. Decision-makers from the military, government and private sectors will share perspectives on strategic priorities, procurement trends and industrial collaboration. 

We will attend and believe so should you, if you want to understand the defence market, form the right connections, and act on the opportunities that lie ahead.  

Focus on industrial opportunities

A major theme of the conference is Norway’s ambitious plan to modernise its naval fleet, including the national tender for up to 28 standardized naval vessels, a long-term programme that will replace multiple older classes of ships and create strategic industrial opportunities for the maritime supply chain. 

The Norwegian government has confirmed that these naval vessels, designed in both large ocean-going and smaller coastal variants, will be developed through national competition to bolster domestic capabilities and attract international partners. The programme aims to start construction in 2027 with the first vessels ready by 2030, and several countries have already expressed interest in collaboration. 

Haakonsvern serves as the headquarters for the Norwegian Navy and home base for various naval vessels, including submarines, corvettes, mine sweepers, frigates, and logistics and support ships. The base hosts around 5400 personnel, including officers, conscripts, and civilian staff. Photo: Jacob Østheim/Forsvaret.

Bergen is home to Haakonsvern, Scandinavia’s largest naval base, making the region uniquely positioned to play a central role in fulfilling this naval acquisition programme, thanks to its world-leading maritime industry and adjacent regional maritime innovation clusters. 

What to expect at the conference

The full-day programme will include:

• Strategic briefings on the evolving security landscape and Norway’s defence priorities, featuring key political and defence procurement leaders.  
• Industry panels sharing experiences and lessons from organisations already supplying to the defence sector. 
• Expert keynotes on barriers and enablers for defence suppliers, and perspectives on European and allied defence industrial cooperation.  
• Interactive workshops on strategy, public procurement law and industrial agreements tailored to help businesses navigate entry and growth in defence markets.  

Check out details here.

Invest in Vestland encourages companies of all sizes — from established maritime firms to specialised tech suppliers — to attend, explore new collaborations, and engage with decision-makers who are shaping future procurement and industrial strategy.

Can you company fill gaps in the Norwegian maritime value chain? Reach out if we can connect you with relevant partners, or if you would like to join us at the conference.