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Norway to Assist Ukraine In Crucial Area With Provision of Additional Air Defence Systems.
Norway has pledged to strengthen Ukraine's air defence capabilities by providing additional equipment worth 1.2 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 107 million dollars). This commitment was announced by Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik during a meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group, also known as the Ramstein Group, on 13 February 2025.
The additional air defence equipment will be acquired from the United States under the JUMPSTART program. (Picture source: US DoD)
In his statement, Minister Sandvik emphasized the critical importance of air defence in Ukraine's ongoing defence efforts, highlighting that it remains the country's highest military priority. He underscored the essential role air defence systems play in protecting both military and civilian infrastructure from persistent aerial threats. Sandvik reaffirmed Norway's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defence needs, which is reflected in the substantial funding allocated to air defence initiatives.
"Norway allocated more than 6 billion Norwegian kroner [534.5 million dollars] for Ukraine's air defence in 2024," Sandvik stated. "Recently, the government decided to allocate an additional 1.2 billion Norwegian kroner for air defence systems for Ukraine."
The additional air defence equipment will be acquired from the United States under the JUMPSTART program, which facilitates the rapid delivery of essential defence equipment. This commitment marks a new step in Norway's strategic support for Ukraine's military capabilities. The funds are part of the 22.5 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 2 billion dollars) allocated for Ukraine's military assistance in 2025 under the Nansen programme.
Minister Sandvik also confirmed that the Norwegian government had informed Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umierov about the provision of these vital air defence systems. This marks another milestone in Norway's strategic partnership with Ukraine, aimed at strengthening its security in the face of ongoing aggression.
In addition to the announcement of the additional air defence equipment, Norway revealed that it would join the drone coalition, a group formed in 2023 to provide Ukraine with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The drone coalition is currently led by Latvia and the United Kingdom and aims to provide Ukraine with cutting-edge drone technologies for reconnaissance and combat operations.
In July 2024, members of the drone coalition signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a joint fund worth 45 million euros. As part of this initiative, large-scale deliveries of various types of drones are expected to begin in 2025, further enhancing Ukraine's capabilities in unmanned aerial warfare.
Norway's financial commitment to Ukraine's military assistance in 2025 reflects the country's continued dedication to Ukraine's sovereignty and security. The Nansen programme, which includes the recent allocation of 1.2 billion Norwegian kroner, is a key component of Norway's broader strategy to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing war with Russia.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Norway's contribution will include not only air defence systems but also an extensive range of military assistance, from advanced weaponry to training and logistical support. These efforts align with Norway's larger role within international defence coalitions, reinforcing its position as a steadfast supporter of Ukraine's military needs.
Norway's latest contribution, valued at nearly 107 million dollars for Ukraine's air defence systems, further underscores its commitment to supporting Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty. The decision to enhance Ukraine's air defence capabilities, alongside its participation in the drone coalition, signifies a continued commitment to strengthening Ukraine's defence infrastructure in the face of external threats. As Norway continues to support Ukraine through initiatives like the Nansen programme, its military assistance will play a crucial role in Ukraine's security in the years to come.