The Norwegian Defence and Security Industries Association (FSi)

FSi is the largest and most important association in Norway advocating the interests of the Norwegian Defence and Security Industry and the primary interlocutor for the government in matters of importance to the industry.

FSi's mission is to foster framework conditions for member companies to succeed in the domestic and global defence and security markets, thereby contributing to Norway's defence and security goals.

The association comprises more than 100 companies from all parts of Norway. It is a diversified group ranging from the major national defence contractors to one-man businesses with unique niche capabilities built on innovation and advanced technology serving both the military and civilian markets. About 85 per cent of our members are SMEs. Membership is open to any contractor with commercial interests in the defence markets and homeland defence. FSi strives to accommodate its members' needs. In our efforts to develop further and sustain a successful association, we encourage our members and other stakeholders to actively involve themselves in our affairs whether on a national or international level.

The member companies employ more than 25,000 highly skilled individuals, accounting for approximately 5000 man-years employed directly in defence-related activities. Turnover in the defence sector is estimated at NOK 9 billion (1.13 bn euro) per year, of which approximately NOK 4 billions are exports.

FSi is the single point of contact for the Norwegian Government and authorities in strategic and political issues that affect the Norwegian defence and security industry. FSi maintains direct contact with key governmental and military bodies through established committees and work processes. FSi's ability to represent its members´ interests is strongly enhanced through its close links to these authority organizations.

The association is also a focal point for foreign contractors seeking cooperation with Norwegian companies in relation to Norwegian defence procurements abroad and international collaborative programmes. We also strongly encourage international interested parties to contact FSi in their efforts to acquaint themselves with the Norwegian companies and competencies in these industry sectors. FSi is always prepared to provide advice and assistance to foreign contractors seeking cooperation in Norway.

FSi supports the member companies through:

• Advocacy - Representing the interests of the industry to the Government, the armed forces, opinion leaders, international organizations and the general public
• Networking - Offering a plethora of seminars and workshops every year, frequently in close collaboration with the MOD and the armed forces of Norway
• Business development - Fostering dialogue with the Government, relevant bodies in the armed forces, foreign contractors seeking partners in Norway and defence industry association in other nations and providing updated information to member companies on relevant events and activities
• Member Services - Providing general advice to member companies and undertaking seminars and courses in subjects relevant to the industry

The association represents Norway in NIAG (NATO Industrial Advisory Group) and is a member of ASD (Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe). Through these organizations, FSi is a key facilitator for Norwegian industrial participation in international projects and studies.

FSi is affiliated, and shares premises, with the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), the main representative body for Norwegian enterprises with a current membership of over 17,000 companies - a link which provides FSi with additional clout in its dialogue with the government and the Armed Forces.

In view of the challenges facing society since the attacks of 11 September 2001, FSi is increasingly also addressing issues associated with civil preparedness, emergency services and disaster relief. The dividing lines between many, if not most, areas of responsibility involving the defence authorities and civilian security and protective agencies are getting less distinct by the day. A great many defencerelated technological and strategic solutions are equally applicable to homeland security - in many cases without modification - and FSi's scope broadens accordingly, beyond of being a defence industry only association. As a result, it is anticipated that member companies will increasingly also focus other markets e.g. the police forces, coastal and harbour surveillance, civil aviation and airport security, the petroleum and hydroelectric industries, and associated infrastructures, as well as traditional defence projects.