Norway to increase defense spending by $11 billion over decade

Norway Announces Plan to Increase Defense Spending

The Norwegian government has announced plans to raise defense spending by 3.5% of its gross domestic product over the next decade, in response to rising military equipment costs and lessons learned from the Ukraine war.

According to Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, the proposed increase will amount to 115 billion kroner ($11.84bn) and will be spread over a period of 10 years, aligning with Norway’s NATO commitments. The government has outlined several priorities for the increased spending, including plans for new submarines and frigates, upgrades of critical defense infrastructure, and enhancements to electronic warfare capabilities.

The decision comes as other NATO countries have also been under pressure from the United States to increase their defense spending in response to Russia’s war on Ukraine. Norway borders Russia to its northeast and is expected to receive support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia as part of the increased spending.

The government has stated that it will prioritize several key areas, including short-range air defense and autonomous systems. However, Defense Minister Tore Sandvik has noted that procurement of anti-ballistic air defenses and maritime surveillance drones may be delayed despite the increase in budget.

Norway is expected to receive its first German-ordered submarine in 2029, with two frigates bought from Britain arriving in 2030 and 2032. The government’s plan aims to strengthen Norway’s defense capabilities while carefully weighing priorities.

Source: Al Jazeera