Center for Defense, Security, and Preparedness

In an increasingly complex and evolving threat landscape, the need for reliable, actionable, and interdisciplinary knowledge has never been greater. Defence capability and societal security are shaped by decisions made at the intersection of technology, people, and society. NORCE delivers research that strengthens the knowledge base for decision-makers to prevent, manage, and learn from crises—within the framework of the Norwegian Security Act. We act as a bridge between sectors and disciplines, connecting industry and public actors.

NORCE is subject to the Security Act and carries a special responsibility for managing knowledge, data, and technology that are critical to Norway’s national security. This entails systematic efforts to protect information, assets, and infrastructure, and positions us as a trusted research partner—also in security-sensitive contexts. Our expertise makes us particularly well suited to deliver research and innovation relevant to both the Armed Forces and civilian preparedness actors.

Today’s threat landscape is complex and dynamic, shaped by geopolitical tensions, hybrid threats, climate change, digital vulnerabilities, and increasing pressure on energy and infrastructure systems. The distinction between civilian and military domains is becoming increasingly blurred, placing new demands on the total defence concept to function effectively across sectors and levels of governance.

NORCE combines expertise in natural sciences and technology with social sciences and operational insight. Our strength lies in understanding how complex systems function in practice—before, during, and after crises—and in translating this understanding into knowledge, tools, and solutions that can be applied by authorities and industry.

On behalf of the Norwegian Coastal Administration, NORCE delivers operational wave forecasting for the Norwegian coastline and continuously advances these systems.

We have developed RIMARC, a system that predicts waves and vessel motions minutes ahead using onboard radar data. By integrating radar measurements, physical models, and artificial intelligence, the system enhances decision support and operational safety in demanding maritime conditions. It also contributes to protecting critical infrastructure and is particularly relevant for naval operations that must remain safe and effective in all weather conditions.

Through the SFI Smart Ocean centre, NORCE contributes to the development of wireless observation systems using autonomous, intelligent sensors to monitor underwater environments and installations. These systems enable flexible, robust, and energy-efficient data collection, processing, and remote operations—capabilities essential for addressing key societal and industrial challenges in ocean environments.

NORCE is also developing new capabilities in monitoring, situational awareness, and decision support. In ARCANA, satellite data, airborne sensors, and advanced machine learning are combined to strengthen maritime operations in the Arctic. In GONDUL, we explore the value of enhanced weather intelligence using autonomous systems and drones under Arctic conditions.

The FORSYN project examines how the Norwegian Armed Forces can leverage local and regional industry in Northern Norway to strengthen supply resilience and crisis preparedness. The project provides new insights into civil–military cooperation and identifies the conditions required for this collaboration to be effective in crisis and conflict.

The Social Digital Twin (SDT) project offers new perspectives on the interaction between populations, authorities, and critical societal systems during crises.

NORCE’s ambition is to be a trusted knowledge partner and a bridge-builder across sectors—linking industry, academia, and public actors—and supporting decision-makers in times of crisis and conflict.