Børje Edvardsen appointed as new head of defence division at Andøya Space

Børje Edvardsen has been appointed as the new head of Andøya Space’s defence-related business area – a strategically important part of the company.

In February, Børje Edvardsen will assume the role of President for Andøya Space’s business division on defence-related services – a unit that has, since 1997, delivered world-leading test and firing range services to the defence industry, the Norwegian Armed Forces, and its allies.

Edvardsen has a background in the police force and most recently held a position as head of the Customer Success department at Davidhorn, an IT company that modernizes police interview handling. Prior to that, he worked as a project manager within the same business area he is now set to lead.

“I initially started as a project manager and was involved in planning several operational activities, including drone testing,” says Edvardsen. “After that, I worked for a few years as deputy manager. I therefore have a solid understanding of the business I’m now going to lead, although I must admit a lot has changed in the three years I’ve been away. That means I now need to reacquaint myself – not just with the defence segment, but also with the rest of the company.”

Edvardsen will take over responsibility for a business area with 22 employees, including four drone apprentices, and a significant turnover.

“This is a very important business area, both for us and for Norway,” says Ketil Olsen, CEO of Andøya Space. “In its ownership report, the government justifies its ownership in Andøya Space partly by stating the need for national control over test facilities for the Armed Forces and the defence industry. That’s why I’m pleased that Børje, with his leadership capabilities, is the one to take the helm. We’ve been through a long and thorough recruitment process with many candidates.”

A key part of Edvardsen’s responsibilities will be to ensure that the test and firing range remains technologically relevant in a constantly evolving world.

“Drone technology has really taken off and is becoming increasingly important,” says Edvardsen. “It will be crucial for Andøya Space to stay ahead. I’m looking forward to beginning the work ahead.”