Kongsberg plugs propulsion gap with Berg Propulsion acquisition

The deal, subject to regulatory approval, advances the company’s ambition to become a single-source supplier of integrated propulsion, automation and vessel technology.

“This acquisition is central in our growth plan and strengthens our ability to serve a broader range of customers and vessel segments,” said Lisa Edvardsen Haugan, CEO of Kongsberg Maritime.

“Berg Propulsion complements our portfolio in a highly attractive way, and together we will deliver greater value through a wider offering, stronger lifecycle support and shared expertise.”

While Kongsberg has long dominated offshore, naval and specialist vessel markets, Berg brings a strong foothold in merchant shipping, supplying propulsion systems for ferries, tugs, product tankers, cargo ships, dredgers and other commercial vessels. The Swedish company generated revenues of approximately €160 million in 2025.

Founded in 1912, Berg has evolved from a propeller manufacturer into one of the world’s leading developers of integrated propulsion systems centred on its controllable-pitch propeller (CPP) technology. Unlike fixed-pitch propellers, CPP systems continuously vary blade pitch to optimise thrust, fuel consumption and engine loading without changing shaft speed, improving manoeuvrability while reducing mechanical wear.

Today, Berg supplies complete propulsion packages combining CPPs, fixed-pitch propellers, azimuth thrusters, tunnel thrusters, shaft lines, reduction gearboxes, shaft generators and propulsion controls. Increasingly, these are integrated with batteries, electric motors and energy management software to create hybrid propulsion systems capable of operating in diesel, electric or combined modes.

For Kongsberg, whose portfolio already spans bridge systems, dynamic positioning, automation, digital twins and energy management, Berg fills a gap in propulsion hardware. The combination positions the group to offer complete vessel systems from bridge to propeller, while strengthening its lifecycle service business.

“The transaction will unlock significant potential in the after market,” said Per Håvard Siljan Hjukse, executive vice president of Kongsberg Maritime’s Propulsion & Handling division. “By combining Berg’s propulsion expertise with Kongsberg Maritime’s Energy & Control systems and global service network, we will create additional value for customers throughout the operational life of their vessels.”

“Joining forces with Kongsberg Maritime is an exciting opportunity for Berg Propulsion,” said Philip Chaabane, CEO of Berg Propulsion. “Our businesses complement each other well, and together we can create new opportunities for our customers and employees. We look forward to contributing our strengths while also benefiting from Kongsberg Maritime’s global scale and after market capabilities.”

Berg will continue to operate as a standalone brand within Kongsberg Maritime’s Propulsion & Handling division following completion of the acquisition.