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The United Kingdom and Norway have announced the strengthening of military cooperation under a new large-scale defence agreement aimed at strengthening security in the northern latitudes. According to EADaily, the agreement was confirmed during a joint press conference between Norwegian Defence Minister Tore Sandvik and UK Defence Secretary John Healey on 19 February in Budø.
The new defence alliance between the two countries is a response to Russia’s growing activity in the Arctic and threats to critical underwater infrastructure. According to Tore Sandvik, the United Kingdom is Norway’s “closest and most important ally in Europe”, and strengthening cooperation is a natural step amid “significant security challenges”.
The agreement provides for:
– development of defence capabilities;
– strengthening joint military training;
– intensification of work in the Arctic;
– intelligence sharing;
– protection of critical underwater infrastructure.
During their visit to Buda, the defence ministers inspected the RFA Proteus and KV Bison surveillance vessels, which monitor underwater activities, including deep-sea research. According to Sandvik, Russian developments in the field of maritime military technology could pose a direct threat to strategic facilities in the UK and Norway.
“Together, we are committed to strengthening our national security and NATO’s security by protecting our common strategic interests,” the Norwegian Defence Minister said.
Particular emphasis is placed on the protection of underwater communications and energy routes in the North Atlantic, which are becoming increasingly vulnerable due to the activity of Russian submarine forces.
Through this agreement, the two countries plan to ensure continuous interaction between their armed forces, which is critical for the defence of the Arctic region and countering potential threats from Russia.
