Norway – Technology Performance Digest
Executive Summary
This report provides a comprehensive assessment of Norway’s current performance and trajectory in the dual-use domains of robotics and sensors, with a specific focus on the contributions and positioning of three leading Norwegian organisations: 1X, Sonair, and sensiBel. As of June 2025, Norway demonstrates a robust and growing capability in both technology areas, underpinned by strong governmental support, a vibrant innovation ecosystem, and a strategic orientation towards both civilian and defence applications. The report evaluates Norway’s strengths and weaknesses, highlights notable programmes and investments, benchmarks its performance against key international competitors, and identifies both opportunities and risks. The outlook for the next five years is cautiously optimistic, with Norway positioned to further strengthen its global standing in dual-use robotics and sensors technologies.
Strengths
Strong Innovation Ecosystem and Government Support
Norway’s innovation ecosystem is characterised by close collaboration between academia, industry, and government. The Norwegian government has prioritised dual-use technologies in its national innovation and defence strategies, providing significant funding and policy support for research and development in robotics and sensors. Programmes such as the Research Council of Norway’s IKTPLUSS and the Defence Research Establishment (FFI) have catalysed advancements in these sectors.
Leading Organisations
1X
1X (formerly Halodi Robotics) is a global leader in humanoid and mobile robotics, focusing on safe, versatile, and affordable robots for both civilian and security/defence applications. The company’s modular platforms are designed for easy integration with advanced sensor suites, enabling applications in surveillance, logistics, and hazardous environment operations.
Sonair
Sonair is at the forefront of acoustic sensors and sensor fusion technologies. Their advanced acoustic sensing platforms are used for perimeter security, underwater surveillance, and industrial monitoring, with growing interest from both the defence and energy sectors.
sensiBel
sensiBel specialises in MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) microphones, delivering ultra-sensitive, miniaturised sensors that enable new capabilities in audio surveillance, UAVs, and IoT devices. Their products are recognised for high performance in challenging environments, making them attractive for both military and commercial customers.
Dual-Use Orientation
Norwegian organisations have demonstrated a strong dual-use orientation, ensuring that innovations in robotics and sensors can be rapidly adapted for both civilian and defence markets. This flexibility enhances commercial viability and supports Norway’s strategic autonomy in critical technologies.
Integration and Interoperability
Norwegian companies excel in integrating robotics and sensors into interoperable systems that can be deployed in complex, multi-domain environments. This is particularly evident in maritime and Arctic applications, where Norway has unique operational requirements and expertise.
Weaknesses
Limited Scale and Market Reach
Despite technological excellence, Norwegian organisations such as 1X, Sonair, and sensiBel face challenges in scaling production and accessing global markets, especially when compared to larger international competitors. The domestic market is relatively small, and regulatory barriers in export markets can impede growth.
Talent Pipeline Constraints
Norway’s high standard of living and relatively small population limit the availability of specialised talent in advanced robotics and sensors engineering. While educational institutions are strong, there is a risk of skills shortages, particularly as demand accelerates.
Dependence on International Supply Chains
Key components for advanced robotics and sensors—such as semiconductors and specialised materials—are sourced internationally. This exposes Norwegian organisations to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical risks, particularly given the increasing strategic competition in the global technology landscape.
Fragmentation and Limited Collaboration
While there are notable examples of collaboration, the Norwegian innovation ecosystem remains somewhat fragmented, with limited cross-sectoral and international partnerships. This can slow the pace of innovation and limit the ability to address complex, multidisciplinary challenges.
Notable Programmes & Investments
Government Initiatives
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI): FFI leads several programmes focused on autonomous systems, sensor fusion, and unmanned platforms, with a strong emphasis on dual-use applications.
- IKTPLUSS (Research Council of Norway): This programme funds research in ICT, including advanced robotics and sensors, with a focus on AI integration, cybersecurity, and edge computing.
- Innovation Norway: Provides grants and support for technology startups and scale-ups, including those in the dual-use sector.
Industry-Led Programmes
1X
- EVE Humanoid Platform: 1X’s EVE robot is being trialled for security patrolling, logistics support, and hazardous environment monitoring, with pilots in both civilian and military contexts.
- Collaborations with Defence Sector: 1X is engaged in partnerships with Norwegian and allied defence agencies to adapt its platforms for surveillance, EOD (explosive ordnance disposal), and remote operations.
Sonair
- Acoustic Perimeter Security: Sonair has deployed its acoustic sensor arrays at critical infrastructure sites, including airports and military bases, providing early warning and situational awareness.
- Underwater Surveillance: The company is developing next-generation hydroacoustic sensors for maritime domain awareness, with applications in anti-submarine warfare and environmental monitoring.
sensiBel
- MEMS Microphone Integration: sensiBel’s products are being integrated into UAVs, smart munitions, and soldier-worn systems, enhancing audio intelligence and situational awareness.
- Export Partnerships: The company has secured export contracts with European and North American defence primes for its high-performance sensor modules.
Academic and Research Collaborations
- Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU): NTNU leads research in autonomous systems, sensor networks, and human-robot interaction, often in partnership with industry.
- SINTEF: This independent research organisation is involved in applied R&D projects spanning sensor miniaturisation, AI-driven signal processing, and robotic autonomy.
Competitive Comparison
International Benchmarking
Robotics
- United States: The US leads in both military and commercial robotics, with large-scale investments by DARPA, DoD, and private sector giants. Norwegian companies like 1X are competitive in niche areas (e.g., human-safe humanoid robots) but lack the scale and breadth of US firms.
- Germany and Japan: Both countries have strong industrial robotics sectors, with deep integration into manufacturing and logistics. Norway is more agile in deploying robotics for harsh environments (e.g., Arctic, maritime), but lags in industrial automation.
- Israel: Israel’s focus on unmanned systems and defence robotics is highly advanced, with rapid innovation cycles. Norwegian firms are competitive in sensor integration and dual-use adaptability, but not in volume production.
Sensors
- United States and China: Both countries dominate in sensor R&D and manufacturing, especially in semiconductors and advanced MEMS. sensiBel and Sonair are recognised for niche excellence (e.g., acoustic MEMS, hydroacoustics), but scale and cost competitiveness remain challenges.
- Sweden and Finland: These Nordic neighbours have strong sensor industries, particularly in defence and telecommunications. Norway’s focus on acoustic and environmental sensors provides differentiation, but cross-border collaboration could be improved.
Unique Norwegian Advantages
- Maritime and Arctic Operations: Norway’s expertise in sensors and robotics for maritime and Arctic environments is world-leading, supported by operational experience and tailored R&D.
- Human-Robot Interaction: 1X’s focus on safe, intuitive robotics for human environments is a differentiator, especially for security and healthcare applications.
Opportunities for Collaboration / Export
European Defence and Security Programmes
Norwegian organisations are well-positioned to participate in European Union defence and security initiatives, such as the European Defence Fund (EDF) and Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects, particularly in areas involving unmanned systems, sensor networks, and autonomous platforms.
NATO and Allied Partnerships
As a NATO member, Norway can leverage interoperability requirements and joint capability development programmes to promote its dual-use robotics and sensors. Opportunities exist for collaborative R&D, joint exercises, and technology demonstration with allied nations.
Civilian Export Markets
- Critical Infrastructure Protection: Sonair’s acoustic sensors and 1X’s security robots are attractive to airports, energy facilities, and urban security operators worldwide.
- Environmental Monitoring: Norwegian sensor technologies are in demand for climate and environmental monitoring, particularly in the Arctic and maritime sectors.
- Healthcare and Elder Care: 1X’s robots have potential applications in healthcare, especially in aging societies seeking automation solutions.
Cross-Sectoral Collaboration
- Energy Sector: Norway’s oil and gas industry provides a testbed for sensor and robotic technologies, with potential for export to other resource-rich countries.
- Digital Health and Smart Cities: The integration of advanced sensors and robotics into smart city and digital health platforms offers new commercialisation avenues.
Risks & Mitigation
Geopolitical and Supply Chain Risks
Risk: Dependence on foreign suppliers for critical components exposes Norwegian organisations to supply chain disruptions and export restrictions.
Mitigation: Develop local supply chains for key components, invest in strategic reserves, and pursue partnerships with trusted suppliers in allied countries.
Talent Shortages
Risk: Limited availability of specialised engineers and researchers could constrain growth and innovation.
Mitigation: Expand STEM education and vocational training, facilitate international recruitment, and incentivise talent retention in high-tech sectors.
Export Control and Regulatory Barriers
Risk: Stringent export controls on dual-use technologies may limit access to global markets.
Mitigation: Engage proactively with regulatory authorities, develop compliance expertise, and seek export opportunities in allied and partner countries.
Technological Obsolescence
Risk: Rapid advances in AI, autonomy, and sensor miniaturisation could render current platforms obsolete.
Mitigation: Maintain a strong R&D pipeline, invest in modular and upgradable system architectures, and participate in international standards development.
Fragmentation and Lack of Scale
Risk: Fragmented innovation ecosystem and limited scale may hinder competitiveness against larger international players.
Mitigation: Foster greater collaboration among Norwegian firms, encourage mergers and strategic alliances, and leverage public-private partnerships for scale.
Outlook (5-year)
Growth Trajectory
Over the next five years, Norway’s dual-use robotics and sensors sectors are expected to experience steady growth, driven by increasing demand for autonomous systems, critical infrastructure protection, and environmental monitoring. The government’s continued investment in R&D and its strategic focus on dual-use capabilities will underpin this trajectory.
Technological Advances
- Robotics: 1X and other Norwegian firms are likely to advance the state-of-the-art in safe, human-interactive robots, with expanded applications in defence, healthcare, and logistics.
- Sensors: Sonair and sensiBel are poised to deliver next-generation acoustic and MEMS sensors, with improved sensitivity, miniaturisation, and AI-driven analytics.
International Positioning
Norway will consolidate its niche leadership in maritime and Arctic applications, while gradually expanding its presence in broader European and allied defence markets. Success will depend on the ability to scale production, deepen international partnerships, and maintain technological edge.
Key Enablers
- Public-Private Collaboration: Enhanced collaboration between government, industry, and academia will be critical to sustaining innovation.
- Workforce Development: Addressing talent shortages through education and international recruitment will be essential.
- Export and Market Access: Proactive engagement with regulatory authorities and international partners will facilitate market expansion.
Risks and Uncertainties
Geopolitical tensions, supply chain vulnerabilities, and rapid technological change remain significant risks. Norway’s ability to adapt to these challenges—through resilience, agility, and collaboration—will determine its long-term success.
Conclusion:
Norway’s performance in dual-use robotics and sensors is characterised by strong technological capabilities, a supportive innovation ecosystem, and a clear dual-use orientation. Organisations such as 1X, Sonair, and sensiBel exemplify the country’s strengths and potential. However, challenges related to scale, talent, and supply chain resilience must be addressed to fully realise Norway’s ambitions. With sustained investment and strategic collaboration, Norway is well-positioned to enhance its global standing in these critical technology domains over the next five years.