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Norway: Long-term plan with focus on air defense

Prop. 87 S (2023-2024)

The Norwegian government proposes to strengthen the country’s defense with 600 billion kroner over the next 12 years,from 2024 to 2036. This significant investment aims to enhance Norway’s ability to protect itself against evolving threats in the modern security landscape.

Key takeaways:

  • Long-range air defense: Acquisition of long-range air defense systems to shield Norway against short-range ballistic missiles within the 2028-2034 timeframe.
  • Doubling NASAMS air defense: Doubling the quantity of the existing NASAMS air defense system and upgrading it to better counter drones and missiles from 2024 to 2036.
  • Replacing air defense systems donated to Ukraine: Replacing air defense systems donated to Ukraine to support their ongoing conflict.
  • Enhancing air defense capabilities for both Air Force and Army: Equipping both the Norwegian Air Force and Army with additional air defense systems and upgrading existing ones.
  • NASAMS enhancements: Implementing volume and performance upgrades for NASAMS air defense systems (2024-2036).
  • Leadership in air defense technology development: Taking a leading role in developing air defense system and missile technology to ensure future relevance.
  • Dedicated air defense program: Establishing a dedicated air defense program within the defense sector in 2024 to holistically manage the realization of the combined effects of various air defense projects and development initiatives.

Specific measures:

  • Long-range air defense procurement: The government will procure long-range air defense systems to protect Norway against short-range ballistic missiles (covering a specific geographical area).
  • Replacing donated air defense systems: Replacing air defense systems donated to Ukraine.
  • Additional NASAMS batteries: Providing four new NASAMS battery systems to the Air Force and Army.
  • New radars for NASAMS: Acquiring new radars for the NASAMS system, in line with previous decisions.
  • Strengthening air defense battalions: Strengthening the endurance of existing air defense battalions in Ørlandet and Evenes by increasing staffing and training levels.
  • Enhancing Finnmark land defense: Bolstering Finnmark land defense with combat air defense capabilities.

Overall, the long-term plan with a focus on air defense represents a comprehensive and substantial effort by the Norwegian government to safeguard the nation’s security against emerging threats in the 21st century.

Image: Martin Mellquist / Forsvaret