Norway is bolstering its defenses with submarines and missiles to counter Russia
In a strategic move reflecting escalating geopolitical tensions in the Arctic, the Norwegian government announced an ambitious military plan aimed at significantly bolstering its defense capabilities in the face of growing security challenges, particularly those emanating from its eastern neighbor, Russia. The plan includes the purchase of two additional advanced German-built submarines, along with long-range missile systems, in a deal estimated to be worth billions of dollars.
Details of the maritime and land deal
The Norwegian Ministry of Defence has confirmed its intention to finalize a deal to purchase two new submarines from Germany, bringing the total order to six. Oslo had previously contracted with the German company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems in 2021 to build four submarines. The first of these submarines is expected to enter service by 2029. This decision will bolster Norway's naval capabilities, given its long and complex coastline which requires constant protection.
In a related development, Tore Sandvik stated in an official statement that Norway, as a maritime nation, relies heavily on submarines to ensure its sovereignty. He indicated that this move is a direct response to the “increased activity of Russian forces” recently observed in the waters of the North Atlantic and the Barents Sea, areas vital to international navigation and European energy security.
Strategic importance: NATO's eyes in the north
This Norwegian move cannot be separated from the broader security context of NATO. Norway, which shares a 198-kilometer land border with Russia as well as extensive maritime borders, acts as the alliance's "eyes and ears" on its northern flank. The Barents Sea region is of paramount importance as it is the main corridor for the Russian Northern Fleet, based on the Kola Peninsula, to access the Atlantic Ocean.
The expansion of the submarine force is intended to ensure NATO's ability to monitor Russian underwater movements, which is vital for preventing strategic surprises and protecting transatlantic supply lines in the event of conflict. Modern submarines are considered an effective deterrent due to their low detection rate and ability to operate for extended periods in cold waters.
Missile systems to deter distant threats
The plan wasn't limited to the naval domain; it also included bolstering land-based firepower. The government proposed an additional defense budget of 46 billion kroner (approximately $4.5 billion) to cover the costs of submarines and new weapons systems. The ministry allocated 19 billion kroner of this to purchase precision missiles capable of striking targets up to 500 kilometers away.
Although the specific missile type has not been definitively determined, reports indicate a choice between globally proven systems such as the American HIMARS system, which gained notoriety in the Ukrainian conflict, and the South Korean Chunmoo missiles, as well as European options manufactured by the KNDS Group. This diversity of options aims to ensure the Norwegian military has the best available deterrent capabilities to protect its territory and critical infrastructure.
