Fremtidens Industri recently hosted the board and executive management of Innovation Norway for a professional program focused on defence, dual-use technology, and cluster development. The visit provided a comprehensive introduction to the entire Fremtidens Industri ecosystem, including its business incubator, innovation hub, and the testing and development environments that form part of the cluster.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen the knowledge base of the delegation, while also giving them the opportunity to become better acquainted with the clusters and a selection of companies within the ecosystem.
With companies from NORDSEC and Ocean Autonomy Cluster as the main framework, participants gained insight into how companies in Trøndelag are positioning themselves at the intersection of civilian and military applications. Activities from RENERGY were also presented, highlighting the breadth of the ecosystem—from energy solutions to advanced ocean technology.
Among the companies presenting were Radionor Communications, Nordiq Products, Maritime Robotics, and SentiSystems, all offering solutions relevant to both civilian and military needs.
Radionor develops robust wireless communication systems designed to operate in demanding environments, including areas where traditional infrastructure is unavailable or disrupted. Nordiq Products develops an ultra-portable medical monitor (LiSa™) for continuous monitoring of vital signs such as respiration, pulse, and oxygen saturation in demanding operational settings. The solution is aimed at military medical teams, emergency services, and prehospital care, where reliable patient monitoring is critical.
Maritime Robotics is a leading provider of unmanned surface vessels (USVs), offering autonomous platforms for surveillance, mapping, and offshore operations. SentiSystems develops technology for GNSS-denied environments, addressing the growing need for robust positioning and data links where satellite signals are unavailable.
“Work carried out in and around Fremtidens Industri is important for Trøndelag, but clearly also for Norway and internationally. Our board and executive management were deeply impressed by what we saw and heard during the visit, and we are pleased to see that Innovation Norway’s instruments are being actively utilized. We look forward to following this important work going forward. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to an inspiring program,” says Håkon Haugli, CEO of Innovation Norway.
One of the highlights of the program was a live demonstration in the Nyhavna harbour basin. Here, participants experienced technology in action from Blueye Robotics, Maritime Robotics, and Eelume. The demonstration included both remotely operated and autonomous underwater solutions, ranging from compact ROVs to advanced unmanned surface vessels and subsea systems for inspection and maintenance of critical infrastructure.
The delegation from Innovation Norway was highly engaged throughout the visit, with many questions and constructive discussions. The interest in the technologies and their applications was evident, both during the presentations and on the quay during the demonstration.
“We at Innovation Norway Trøndelag are very proud of what was showcased during our visit to Fremtidens Industri. We have highly capable clusters within energy, autonomy, and defence, with companies like Radionor and Maritime Robotics serving as natural spearheads” says Vigdis Harsvik, Regional Director of Innovation Norway Trøndelag.
“It is important for us to showcase what we are working on—both how we operate and, not least, a selection of the many innovative companies being created and developed within the network,” says Bjørn Damhaug, CEO of Fremtidens Industri.
The visit underscores the growing interest in defence and dual-use technology in Trøndelag, and the importance of close collaboration between clusters, companies, and public support instruments to strengthen innovation capacity, export opportunities, and industrial preparedness.