Norway makes presence felt at DefExpo Goa

Several Norwegian defence producers recently participated in the DefExpo exhibition in Goa last week.

The exhibition was aimed at projecting India's defence sector as an attractive area for investment.From March 28 to 31, Indian and international companies, as well as Indian government officials and foreign delegations met for showcases, seminars and business-to-business meetings.

Innovation Norway organised a Norwegian pavilion at the DefExpo in association with the Norwegian Defence and Security Industries Association (FSi). The organisation is the primary interlocutor for the Norwegian government in matters of importance to the industry and advocates for the interests of the Norwegian Defence and Security Industries.

They were joined by at least 1,000 Indian and international companies that are taking part in the exhibition this year, almost double the number from 2014 when it was held the last time. The official delegations and international companies came from 45 different countries.

Leading Norwegian companies which specialize in military technology and equipment, Kongsberg Defence, NAMMO, Norsafe, Nordic Shelter and Sensonor were present in the Norwegian pavilion. Additionally, a few companies such as Sohome, IMS, Vestdavit, H.Henriksen, Water Mist Engineering and Redrock showcased their items with their Indian partners.

Instead of selling main platforms like aircrafts, combat vehicles and warships, Norwegian companies focussed on subcomponents like command and control systems, communication equipment, combat systems and technology based systems that allow bigger systems to make use of their full potential. This should make them ideal cooperation partners for India, focusing on "Make in India".

Ambassador Kamsvag, Defence Attache Captain Hogne Rykkje and representative from Innovation Norway participated in the expo. One of the main events was a "Make in India" seminar for the defence sector.