Norway has signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems–Bridge Systems to acquire the M3 amphibious bridge and ferry system, further enhancing the country’s wet-gap crossing capabilities and interoperability within NATO.
This latest order makes Norway the third member of the Nordic Defence Cooperation to procure the M3, following Sweden and Denmark, and underscores the system’s growing role across the alliance.
The M3 is designed to provide rapid, flexible, and reliable support for wet-gap crossings, allowing forces to transport vehicles and personnel across rivers or other water obstacles.
It can function both as a mobile bridge and a ferry, making it adaptable to a range of operational scenarios.
Other NATO Countries Operating the M3
The M3 has also been adopted by several other NATO members in recent years.
Sweden received its first M3 system in November 2024 after procuring multiple rigs from General Dynamics.
Germany and the United Kingdom, through the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation, jointly purchased a new generation of M3 vehicles in October 2025 under the Wide Wet Gap Crossing program to replace older equipment.
With these acquisitions, six NATO members now operate the M3, highlighting the system’s strategic significance and reinforcing NATO’s ability to conduct rapid river-crossing operations across the alliance.
