Norway has joined the coalition for air defense of Ukraine against Russian planes and missiles.
Norway joined the air defence coalition for Ukraine
Norwegian Defenсe Minister Bjorn Arild Gram said it is "quite natural" for Oslo to be part of such an air defence coalition because the Norwegian NASAMS air defence systems successfully protect Ukrainian skies.
Air defense is one of Ukraine's priorities. It is necessary to protect military departments, cities and critical infrastructure, said Norwegian Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram.
In addition to the air defence coalition, Norway has already participated in two other initiatives to increase Ukraine's defence capabilities.
We are talking about the naval coalition, which Norway leads together with Great Britain, and the F-16 coalition, within which Norway transfers its F-16 fighters to Ukraine and trains Ukrainian pilots and engineers.
France heads the air defence coalition for Ukraine, which Germany also chairs. The alliance was created to strengthen Ukraine's air defence, essential for protecting the civilian population. It increases the effectiveness of support for Ukrainian air defence and facilitates procurement.
What is known about aid to Ukraine from Norway
Recently, the Norwegian government decided to allow the direct sale of weapons and defence products from the Norwegian defence industry to Ukraine's defence authorities. This policy change took effect on Jan. 1, 2024.
In Oct. 2023, Norway announced financial assistance for demining Ukraine. It is about 18.5 million dollars.
Kyiv also recently started negotiations with Oslo regarding the conclusion of a bilateral security agreement.
At the same time, Norway joined the Czech Republic's initiative to purchase ammunition for Ukraine.
