Norway joins coalition for Ukraine's air defense
Photo: Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram (Getty Images)
Norway has joined the coalition for Ukraine's air defense against Russian planes and missiles, according to the Norwegian government.
"Norway joins the letter of intent on support to Ukraine in air defense against aircraft and missiles. Air defense is one of the areas of special focus among the countries that provide military support to Ukraine," the statement says.
Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram said that it is quite natural for Oslo to be part of such an air defense coalition.
"Norwegian NASAMS contributes to saving Ukrainian lives and protecting critical infrastructure every day," he emphasizes.
This winter, several coalitions were formed to provide military support to Ukraine. The government has decided on Norway's participation in three such coalitions: the Maritime Coalition, which Norway leads together with the United Kingdom, the F-16 Coalition, in which Norway will provide F-16 combat aircraft and train Ukrainian personnel to operate the system, and the Air Defense Coalition, led by Germany and France.
Norway's assistance to Ukraine
Recently, the Norwegian government decided to allow direct sales of weapons and defense products from the Norwegian defense industry to Ukraine's defense authorities. This policy change came into effect on January 1, 2024.
In October, Norway announced financial assistance for demining in Ukraine. The amount is $18.5 million.
Kyiv has also recently started negotiations with Oslo on a bilateral security agreement.
At the same time, Norway joined Czechia's initiative to purchase ammunition for Ukraine.
