Information
The Norwegian Government has announced a significant increase in defence spending, pledging to allocate 5% of the country’s GDP to strengthen national security and bolster its contributions to NATO. This decision comes amid rising global instability and aligns with broader NATO discussions about adopting a collective 5% GDP target for defence. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized that the move is part of Norway’s National Security Strategy and aims to enhance military capability and societal resilience rapidly. Of the 5% target, 3.5% will go toward core defence spending, while 1.5% will support civilian measures that aid military readiness, such as infrastructure, civil preparedness, and cybersecurity.
Defence Minister Tore Sandvik cited Russia as a persistent long-term threat and underscored the need for ambitious new NATO capability targets reminiscent of Cold War levels. The plan emphasizes close collaboration between Norway’s Armed Forces and civil society, reflecting the belief that a resilient civilian sector is vital for effective defence. Following the NATO Summit in late June, the government will consult the Storting (Norwegian Parliament) on how to implement the new spending plan. With Norway already surpassing NATO’s current defence spending benchmark, the government aims to increase investments in security and preparedness further, both militarily and within the civilian domain, to meet emerging challenges.
Source: Regjeringen, Defence Industry EU
So What
This is very encouraging news, as an improved defensive posture is likely the most effective way to contain Russian aggression. Additionally, increased spending on civilian measures will likely enhance preparedness and help counter potential grey-zone actions by hostile states. This is crucial, as it is almost certain that disrupting Norway and other European nations will be one of Russia’s initial steps.
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