2LT International News

COPENHAGEN, Denmark: The Norwegian center-left government has announced its intention to implement what it terms “a historic increase” in defense spending, amounting to 600 billion kroner (US$56 billion) over the next 12 years.

“We need a defense that is fit for purpose in the emerging security environment,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said.

“As our security environment is deteriorating, we need to spend more on and pay more attention to defense and preparedness,” Gahr Store said, adding that his two-party government wants to spend a total of 1.624 trillion kroner ($152 billion) between now and 2036.

Store outlined the objectives of this enhanced spending initiative, which include acquiring a minimum of five new frigates and submarines, procuring Norway’s inaugural long-range air defense system, and expanding the army’s capacity from one to three brigades.

Finance Minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum underscored that this increase in defense expenditure would not entail a reduction in public services, emphasizing that the proposed investment would stimulate job creation and bolster overall economic growth within Norway.

Store clarified Norway’s stance within the NATO alliance, asserting, “Norway is no threat to anyone, nor is NATO. But we must have the capability to defend ourselves if crisis and war occur.”

The coalition government anticipates broad support for its proposal within the 169-seat Storting assembly, though a specific date for the vote has yet to be determined.

In a separate development earlier this month, Norway, renowned for its oil wealth, unveiled plans to augment its conscription system. The country aims to increase the number of conscripted soldiers from the current 9,000 to 13,500 by the year 2036.