17/04/2026 | Press release
Satellite Test Centre: Rheinmetall and the Norwegian municipality of Andøy sign a memorandum of understanding for an integrated processing facility
Key Facts
- The municipality of Andøy and Rheinmetall strengthen their cooperation as the space cluster grows
- Construction of a Rheinmetall Integrated Process Facility at Prærien Business Park in Andenes
- Both parties intend to press ahead with the project
Andøy Municipality and Rheinmetall Nordic AS have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to enable the establishment of the Rheinmetall Integrated Process Facility (RhIPF) at Prærien Business Park in Andenes. The planned facility is intended to serve as a satellite test center and will represent a significant contribution to the growing space and defence industry cluster at Andøya. The LOI outlines the parties’ shared intention to move forward with land leasing, zoning, and construction processes required for the project. Rheinmetall Nordic will provide the necessary technical specifications and documentation to support planning and permitting activities, while Andøy Municipality commits to facilitating efficient processing and ensuring access to required infrastructure.
The project remains subject to a final investment decision by Rheinmetall AG. Rheinmetall retains exclusive rights to a designated area in Andøy.
Morten Kjørum, CEO of Rheinmetall Nordic AS, stated: “We greatly appreciate the constructive collaboration with Andøy Municipality and look forward to continuing our close cooperation as we advance this project at Andøya. The municipality’s commitment and proactive support are essential to realizing this strategically important facility, and we are encouraged by the progress to date.”
Kjell Are Johansen, Mayor of Andøy Municipality, commented: “We are very pleased that Rheinmetall has chosen Andøya for this important strategic initiative. The project represents significant industrial development, new opportunities for our community, and further strengthens Andøya’s position as a leading hub for space and defence-related activities. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation with Rheinmetall Nordic and supporting the next steps toward their planned space investment in Andøy.”
Both parties will now continue to work toward a final lease agreement, a potential development agreement, and preparation for construction subject to the approval of the necessary plans.
