REDUCED FOOTPRINTS
In 2021, NATO adopted an ambitious Climate Change and Security Action Plan to mainstream climate change considerations into NATO's political and military agenda. The Defence Industry must accelerate the development of sustainable products and solutions.
FFI is involved in preparing a climate and environmental action plan for the defence sector. The project opens up for the use of more environmentally friendly production lines and improve recycling of military equipment without compromising the Armed Forces' operational performance.
KONGSBERG’s divisions for Land Systems and Aerostructures, together with FFI, will begin a pilot project to analyze and study engineering concepts, material technology and production processes as a contribution to reducing the overall environmental footprint of defence products.
“This project will give us greater insight into the entire product cycle, what resources are used and understanding our environmental footprint. And with that, KONGSBERG can increase our knowledge and competitive advantage. Knowledge established through this project will also be transferable to other projects across our divisions,” says Lars Kveseth, Technology Director Aerostructures, KONGSBERG.
Product design can affect the material selection process, and gives us an insight of repair possibilities and lifetime of the product. Design for (the) Environment (DfE) is a design process where the designer prioritize the environment aspect on same level as quality, technology, aesthetics, ergonomics, etc. This design process enables alternative design solutions with lower environmental impact on the product.
While identifying suitable materials and processes, a KONGSBERG initiative has been started to utilize the expertise of potential regional and national partners/Academia in this project.
A green industrial cooperation
In this project, KONGSBERG will try to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding on how products affect the climate and the environment, and identify new technologies that can be used in products - as well as its maturity in the market. KONGSBERG will also, based on circular economy, analyze how to achieve an efficient use of resources and material utilization throughout the product's life cycle.
During the project, the participants will explore eco-friendly alternatives, such as load-bearing structures, structures that protect electronics, ballistics, etc. KONGSBERG will also look into new production processes for generative design, bio composites / resins, cellulose-based nanofiber, recycling. The team will also investigate the possibility of collaboration with Norwegian industry in cellulose-based nanomaterials.
Future of sustainable solutions
KONGSBERG wants to carry out this project to gain knowledge about the possibilities that lies in new materials and technologies, and be able to offer existing and new customers sustainable solutions for RWS and MCT. This will strengthen competitiveness and provide revenue opportunities through new products. This project will also strengthen KONGSBERG's position in the market.
By being actively involved in Defence industry's research and development, KONGSBERG will be an important contributor to sustainable development in the Defence sector.