The Norwegian government has proposed to parliament an increase in defense spending of 51.7 billion euros over the next 12 years – i.e. until 2036. With this increase, Norway will be spending a total of 140 billion euros on its armed forces by 2036. This is intended to increase the size of the army in many areas. For example, there are plans to equip the navy with new submarines. A long-range air defense system will also protect Norway’s airspace for the first time.
“This plan represents a historic increase in defense spending and includes a significant strengthening of all branches of the armed forces,” said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre at the presentation of the plan. “Norway is a maritime nation with a strong maritime heritage. The government is committed to strengthening the navy with new frigates, submarines and other vessels. The plan also includes a robust air defense package, including Norway’s first long-range air defense system.”
“Norway is not a threat to anyone, and neither is NATO.
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Norwegens Ministerpräsident, Jonas Gahr Støre
Norway’s Minister of Finance, Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, also expressed his confidence in the package: “Our proposed defense investments will benefit the whole country in several ways. If we are going to spend so much on defense, it must be done in a way that creates Norwegian jobs and investments.” In particular, the additional budget will enable improvements in the following areas:
- Defense structure: Current or critical deficiencies are to be rectified. This includes an increase in ammunition and material stocks, the maintenance of buildings and important infrastructure, an increase in the capacity to accommodate allied reinforcements and the recruitment of more personnel.
- Armed forces personnel: As part of the new security concept, around 4,600 additional conscripts, 13,700 additional reservists and 4,600 additional employees are to be recruited by 2036. This is also to be followed by a significant increase in skills.
- A strong maritime package: The navy will receive at least five new frigates with helicopters for anti-submarine warfare, at least five new submarines and a unified ship class with up to ten large and 18 smaller ships. Strengthening the navy is the largest financial investment in the Norwegian government’s plan.
- Air defense: Long-range air defense systems are to be procured to protect against short-range ballistic missiles. In addition, the number of existing NASAMS air defense systems from manufacturer Kongsberg which is being upgraded at the same time to provide better protection against drones and missiles. But it is not only the air force that will receive more air defense systems, the army will also benefit. The older systems will be modernized.
- Army and Home Guard: The army will be expanded from one to three brigades, one in the northernmost province of Finnmark, one in Troms and a new Brigade South. The army will benefit in the form of long-range precision firearms, additional combat vehicles, improved air defense and helicopters for the army and special forces. The Norwegian Home Guard is to be increased from around 40,000 soldiers at present to a total of 45,000 soldiers and equipped with improved capabilities.
- Situation picture: The situation picture will be improved through more surveillance, an increased presence and control in the immediate vicinity and the aforementioned deployment of new ships. In addition, satellite and drone capacities are being expanded.
Norway wants to be able to defend itself in an emergency
“We need a military that focuses on active conflict prevention every day and is still prepared to deal with conflicts. Increased activity requires more personnel. Our armed forces will be strengthened with a total of more than 20,000 conscripted soldiers, employees and reservists,” said Minister of Defense Bjørn Arild Gram. Prime Minister Støre concluded: “Norway is not a threat to anyone, and NATO either. But we must be able to defend ourselves in the event of a crisis or war. A stronger national defense will help deter those who want to threaten our sovereignty.”
