Today at 18:18
The Norwegian government has announced the allocation of NOK 1.2 billion (€109 million) this year for the development and procurement of maritime drones for Ukraine.
According to the Norwegian government, as reported by UATV English, the funding will come from the Nansen Program and will be used for the development, procurement, and delivery of maritime unmanned systems produced by both the Norwegian and Ukrainian defense industries.
“Norway’s maritime industry is a world leader. I am pleased that this expertise can also be used to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom. Ukraine uses maritime drones for reconnaissance, offensive operations, and protection against Russian attacks,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
On Tuesday, Støre met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the meeting of Nordic and Baltic leaders in Tallinn.
The Norwegian government emphasized that these drones will play a crucial role in safeguarding the export of grain and other goods through the Black Sea.
Norway and the United Kingdom co-chair the Maritime Capability Coalition in support of Ukraine. Since its establishment in 2023, Norway has focused on leveraging its maritime expertise and industrial capabilities to assist Ukraine in its defense against Russia.
It was recently reported that Ukraine and Norway are establishing the first joint production facility for Ukrainian drones, with plans to manufacture several thousand mid-strike drones in Norway.
The project will be financed by the Norwegian side through additional funding on top of the previously allocated $7 billion in defense assistance for Ukraine in 2026.
It is worth recalling that on April 14, Ukraine and Norway signed a defense partnership declaration. Under the agreement, Norway committed to supporting the production of Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine agreed to share operational experience, data, and other relevant expertise with Norway.
