Les saken på norsk Norwegian ocean technology is entering new and exciting markets. At the fourth XLRTR program session, participants received practical tools to strengthen communication and strategy, while also engaging with new international initiatives that can open doors for their technology in the defense market, both in Norway, internationally, and in Ukraine. Dual-use refers to technology developed for civilian purposes that can also be used for military applications. Andreas Birger Johansen from Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Communication and market strategy in practice Over two intensive days, participants explored how messages can be tailored to different actors within the defense sector. The session was led by Jens Inge Hydnøy and Andreas Birger Johansen from Halogen, who guided participants in developing precise and visual communication solutions for both operational levels and decision-makers. Pål Rune Johansen, WaterLinked. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Exciting participant companies Companies in the XLRTR program include Zeabuz, Ocean Access, Clarify, Link Nordic, Water Linked, and Senti-Systems, representing a wide and exciting range of Norwegian autonomous ocean technology. They are all members of Ocean Autonomy Cluster or NORDSEC - Nordic Defence and Security Cluster. Clarify develops software for data-driven insights, while Water Linked provides sensor technology for underwater operations. Zeabuz works on autonomous surface vessel solutions, and Link Nordic is a distributor of technical components. Senti-Systems specializes in communication in GNSS-denied environments, and Ocean Access develops data and communication buoys that can also operate submerged. Together, they demonstrate how Norwegian technology can contribute to solutions that strengthen societal security while having broad applications in civilian markets. Jens Inge Hydnøy at Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Program and partners The program is led by Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, drawing on additional resources from FI Ocean Space Incubator, MIDAS, and Testination, all of which provide expertise, testing capabilities, and innovation support. Over four sessions, participants have gained insight into the dual-use market, corporate law and business regulations, capital and partner strategy, and now communication and market approach. Sigmund Henningsen explains how SentiSystems provides navigation solutions when GPS signals are unavailable. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Ready for Defense Innovation Highway As part of the program, participants also met Ukrainian representatives from the Defense Innovation Highway (DIH), a Danish initiative and platform to strengthen collaboration on defense innovation between Ukraine and the Nordic countries. We have made great progress in the development and use of maritime drones. We see great benefit in closer collaboration with partners in Norway on autonomous technology, said Dennis from DIH. The session also provided information on how DIH can facilitate faster cooperation and open new opportunities for dual-use technology internationally. Henrik Stray and Carl Johansson at Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Rewarding and inspiring The goal is to prepare ocean technology companies for deliveries to both defense and emergency markets as well as civilian customers, providing them with tools to grow into larger defense programs. Among major international programs the XLRTR companies are preparing to join is NATO’s DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic), which connects startups, research environments, and investors more closely with the defense sector to test and develop new technology faster. In Norway, LINK (Long-term Incentives for Knowledge and Innovation) supports SMEs in development and partnerships, helping them position themselves in the defense market. On a European level, EDF (European Defence Fund) funds R&D projects and provides resources for industry and research actors collaborating across member states. Through the fourth session, participants strengthened their ability to build clear and targeted messages, an important step toward positioning in a complex and demanding market. The process has been rewarding and inspiring, giving us new perspectives and practical takeaways. We gained a better understanding of operational needs and see great benefit in closer collaboration on autonomous maritime solutions, commented one of the participants. Thomas Olaussen, Link Nordic. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Meet XLRTR companies at the Defense Conference As part of the XLRTR program, the companies will also participate with a shared stand at the Defense Conference on 24 September. There, they will present their solutions and meet potential partners and customers at one of the most important gatherings for the Norwegian defense and security industry. The Defense Conference is organized by NORDSEC along with several partners. Syver Rønningen and Miriam Damhaug Hoel inform about the stands at the Defense Conference. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Do you want to join XLRTR? XLRTR is an acceleration/scaleup program for ocean tech companies with the ambition and potential to go into the dual-use market. Only for Norwegian companies. XLRTR - Request for more information Pictures from XLRTR Tore Norheim Hagtun at Clarify. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Andreas Birger Johansen at Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Ingrid Margrethe Sandnes, manger of FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Henrik Stray and Carl Johansson i Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Carl Johansson, Zeabuz. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Thomas Olaussen, Link Nordic and Pål Rune Johansen, WaterLinked. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri
Les saken på norsk How can Norwegian tech companies position themselves for the growing focus on defence, security and emergency preparedness? This was the key topic at the third XLRTR workshop, hosted by the NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, Ocean Autonomy Cluster and FI Ocean Space Incubator. Throughout the day, participants gained insight into how investors, industry players and advisors assess developments in the defence-related market, and how Norwegian companies can prepare for collaboration, investment, and growth. Egil Garberg, Investinor. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/NORDSEC From opportunities to positioning Egil Garberg from Investinor opened the day with an overview of the growing capital flow into the defence sector, and how companies with relevant technology can position themselves to access this funding. Kim Lynge Sørensen from UBIQ Aerospace shared practical experiences from industrial collaboration and discussed how the company has navigated partnerships with both public and private stakeholders. His talk offered valuable insights into what works in practice—and where the common challenges lie. Kim Lynge Sørensen, UBIQ Aerospace. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/NORDSEC Legal and strategic frameworks After lunch, PwC took the stage with a deep dive into the legal and strategic aspects of industrial collaboration. Morten Riseth and Haldis Ulsund outlined the legal frameworks for defence procurement, while Jørgen Mjønes and Hans Jacob Hurrød shared insights into investment processes and how Norwegian companies can position themselves in relation to international suppliers. Kjetil Birkeland Daatland emphasized how security and preparedness are becoming competitive advantages when engaging with the defence sector. Morten Riseth and Haldis Ulsund, PwC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/NORDSEC Next milestone: Defence Conference, 24 September Participants also received information about the 2025 Defence Conference, which will be held on 24 September. This conference will serve as a key arena for networking, positioning, and visibility in a rapidly growing market. The companies in the XLRTR programme will take part in the conference, showcasing their technologies and solutions aimed at the defence and emergency preparedness sector. Hans Jacob Hurrød, PwC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/NORDSEC About XLRTR The XLRTR programme is designed to accelerate collaboration between tech developers and investors, with a strong focus on the ocean space, security, and defence. The workshop offered a valuable mix of analysis, experience sharing, and practical tools to help companies take the next step in engaging with a sector in rapid development. Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager at NORDSEC. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/NORDSEC
Les saken på norsk How can Norwegian technology create value in both civilian and military markets? This was the central question when the participants of the new business development program XLRTR met for the first time. The program, a collaboration between Ocean Autonomy Cluster, NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster, Testination, and Fremtidens Industri, brings together technology companies with ambitions to explore the growing dual-use market—technologies and solutions that can be applied in both civilian and military contexts. Dual-use is no longer a niche term “It’s a strategic priority across Europe,” says Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Manager of Ocean Autonomy Cluster. “Norway must position itself to play a role in this picture, and that means we need companies that can deliver technology to both the defense sector and civilian applications. Supporting relevant companies in positioning themselves for this market is therefore highly valuable,” he adds. Andreas Birger Johansen, Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Strategy, scaling opportunities, and new networks The defense market is a challenging one. The XLRTR program aims to equip companies with the tools they need to navigate this landscape in a structured and targeted way. The first gathering provided participants with insight into both the opportunities and challenges in the dual-use market. It laid the groundwork for further strategy development and market positioning. The session was led by Jens Inge Hydnøy and Andreas Birger Johansen from the design and innovation company Halogen, who guided the group through key processes and contributed valuable perspectives on business development and user-oriented innovation. “Our member companies deliver technologies that are increasingly in demand by the defense sector. With XLRTR, we have established a structured arena to build competence and develop solutions that address both markets,” says Halvorsen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Pioneering players in the dual-use tech space This year’s program includes several exciting companies: Clarify, which develops software for data-driven insights; Water Linked, which delivers sensor technology for underwater operations; Zeabuz, which creates maritime autonomy solutions for surface vessels; Link Nordic, a distributor of technical components; SentiSystems, which specializes in communication for GNSS-denied environments; and Ocean Access, which develops data and communication buoys, including submersible models. One of the featured presentations during the gathering came from incubator manager Vegard Saur, who introduced the FI Ocean Space Incubator. As a co-organizer, the incubator supports startup and scaleup companies within ocean space technology and the dual-use segment, and was well received by the participants. The program is built on a solid foundation of expertise: Fremtidens Industri contributes extensive experience in business development and innovation, while Testination brings valuable knowledge in technology validation and test environments. Vegard Saur, FI Ocean Space Incubator. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Looking ahead to the next gathering The XLRTR program continues throughout spring and autumn with additional sessions, thematic deep-dives, and individual follow-ups. The goal is to support companies with the potential to contribute to the future of defense and preparedness—while maintaining a strong foothold in the civilian technology world. “This is about bridging markets, sectors, and needs. Through XLRTR, we give Norwegian technology companies the opportunity to grow in a market with both high demand and high standards,” says Frode Halvorsen. As part of the XLRTR program, the companies will also be present at the Defence Conference Forsvarskonferansen in September. The next XLRTR cohort starts before Christmas, and spots are already being filled. Jens Inge Hydnøy, Halogen. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster Want to know more about the program or the next cohort? Contact: Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Manager, Ocean Autonomy Cluster 📞 +47 918 45 969 | ✉️ frode@fi-nor.no Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager, NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster 📞 +47 400 21 020 | ✉️ ebbe@fi-nor.no Vegard Saur, Director, FI Ocean Space Incubator 📞 +47 930 27 106 | ✉️ vegard@fi-nor.no
Les saken på norsk Dual-use refers to technology, products, or knowledge that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Ocean Autonomy Cluster and NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster are now launching XLRTR, a business development program for companies looking to explore and establish themselves in the market for technology and solutions with both civilian and military applications. “Dual-use” is a key concept in Europe these days. Every country recognizes the need to strengthen both defense and societal preparedness, and most signal that deliveries from SMEs engaged in dual-use are a vital resource in this landscape,” says Ebbe Deraas, Cluster Manager at NORDSEC. Norway is no exception. Supporting relevant companies in positioning themselves for this market is therefore highly beneficial, he adds. “From the defense sector, we see a continuously growing demand for the technology our member companies provide,” says Frode Halvorsen, Cluster Manager at Ocean Autonomy Cluster. World-Class Technology Both industry clusters have a range of member companies developing world-leading technology within surveillance, detection, maritime technology, communication, and autonomy. The program takes participants through a structured process, starting with a preliminary study and company analysis to map technology, market position, and growth potential. Fremtidens Industri (FI) is well-positioned to develop dual-use opportunities through its broad industry reach and cross-sectoral network. With member companies spanning defense, maritime, energy, autonomy, and digitalization, FI connects technology development, capital, and market opportunities across industries. With extensive experience in innovation projects and cluster development, FI has helped companies successfully scale their technology into new markets, including the defense and security sectors. The XLRTR program builds on this expertise by providing companies with strategic tools, commercialization expertise, and networks to help them realize their potential in a demanding yet highly attractive market. Business Development and Growth Strategy Defense, security, and preparedness is a demanding market. With the combined experience and expertise of both the defense sector in NORDSEC and the ocean technology sector in Ocean Autonomy Cluster, we can now offer a scaling program that helps companies grow and expand effectively, says Halvorsen. Through XLRTR, companies gain insights into how they can develop and adapt their business models for the dual-use market. Innovation and specialization are central, and the program facilitates the development of solutions tailored to different sectors. Participants also gain a deeper understanding of regulatory requirements, financing opportunities, and market dynamics. “XLRTR will be an essential initiative for companies developing civilian technology with potential military applications and considering entering the defense and security sector,” says Eirik Hovstein. Hovstein is the co-founder and Deputy CEO for Security and Preparedness at Maritime Robotics AS, a successful company based in Trøndelag. There are many pitfalls in this market, so XLRTR will be an invaluable resource for member companies, he adds. Eirik Hovstein, co-founder and deputy CEO at Maritime Robotics. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Fremtidens Industri Networking, Capital, and Visibility Business law, systems, and routines are crucial elements in ensuring companies have a solid foundation for growth. Testing and piloting validate the technology in relevant environments. The program also provides participants with tools for market development and internationalization, helping them position themselves both nationally and globally. XLRTR grants access to a broad network of relevant partners and investors, incorporating strategies for capital acquisition and commercial scaling. Communication strategy and business development play a key role in strengthening companies’ visibility and competitiveness in a demanding market. Who Can Participate? XLRTR is designed for technology companies, suppliers, and businesses aiming to enter a market with significant opportunities and high demands. The program equips participants with both the expertise and network needed for success. Want to Learn More? 📞 Frode Halvorsen Cluster Manager, Ocean Autonomy Cluster +47 918 45 969 | frode@fi-nor.no 📞 Ebbe Deraas Cluster Manager, NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster +47 400 21 020 | ebbe@fi-nor.no NORDSEC Defence and Security Cluster