The Norwegian government wants to strengthen the country's defence by adding an additional NOK 115 billion to the long-term defence plan through to 2036. Of this amount, NOK 31 billion is to be allocated before 2030, and the planning period is proposed to be extended to 2040.

The decision is motivated by a more uncertain security situation, increased costs for military equipment, and lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, as announced by the Norwegian government in a press release.

– Since we presented the long-term defence plan, the world has become more unstable and the security landscape more complex. We are now taking measures to ensure a more effective development of our defence capability in a more uncertain world, commented Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in the press release.

According to the government, Norway is facing the most serious security situation since the Second World War, citing the wars in Europe and the Middle East as contributing factors. At the same time, the Norwegian government notes that the country must be prepared for Russia to strengthen its military presence in the future.

– The outcome of the war in Ukraine will affect European security for a long time. When the war is over, we must be prepared for Russia potentially strengthening its military presence in our immediate region, says Støre.

The Norwegian government notes that Norway's defence budget has increased since 2021, and the budget for 2026 amounts to NOK 180 billion. With the proposed increase, defence expenditure is estimated to correspond to approximately 3.5 per cent of GDP by 2035, in line with NATO's targets.

– It costs a great deal to invest in defence, but the costs of war are even higher. We are investing in defence and preparedness to increase deterrence and prevent war, but we are prepared to defend Norway and NATO, says Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik.

The government also plans to deepen military cooperation with close allies, including through strategic defence agreements with the United Kingdom and Germany, as well as ongoing negotiations with France. The goal is to strengthen Nordic defence cooperation.

Priority areas according to the government:

  • Accelerate the development of the Finnmark Brigade (northern Norway), including equipment and personnel, by two years
  • Increase investments in combat-decisive ammunition and supply security
  • Accelerate the introduction of new submarines and the procurement of the first two frigates
  • Upgrade critical defence infrastructure to receive and support allied forces
  • Strengthen the production capacity of Norwegian and European defence industry
  • Improve capabilities in electronic warfare, short-range air defence, drone defence, and autonomous systems