Page 25 - Norwegian Special Report

Reshaping Norwegian Defense

The Russian annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the continued destabilization of Eastern Ukraine both constitute
violations of international law, which have had a dramatic effect on European security. Russia has repeatedly
proven itself willing to use a wide range of measures, including military force, to sustain its political dominance
and influence.

Even though Russia does not constitute a military threat to Norway, the combination of military modernization and
the will to exert as a central factor in Norwegian defense planning.

Areas in Norway’s immediate vicinity are also central to Russian nuclear deterrence, and Russia’s military presence
and activities in the North have increased in recent years.

The High North continues to be characterized by stability and cooperation, and Russian strategies for the Arctic
still emphasize international cooperation. At the same time, we cannot rule out the possibility that Russia in a given
situation will consider the use of military force to be a relevant tool, also in the High North

https://www.regjeringen.no/globalassets/departementene/fd/dokumenter/rapporter-og-
regelverk/capable-and-sustainable-ltp-english-brochure.pdf

The Russian and Norwegian areas of strategic interest are clearly congruent with one another, which means
that engaging and deterring Russia in the air and sea space of Norway and into the North Atlantic and the
Arctic is central to Norwegian defense

And this means as well that Norway needs a solid relationship with allies to ensure that both the extended
defense of Norway as well the defense of NATO’s Northern Flank are secured.

The map below highlights the situation facing Norway with regard to maritime zones and operational areas.

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