Norwegian forces are operating alongside several Allies, including Standing NATO Maritime Group One, underlining the Alliance’s continued presence in the High North. Training is taking place across Bjørnafjorden, Sognesjøen and Sognefjorden, following a port visit by participating ships to Bergen.
Chief of the Norwegian Fleet Commodore Kyrre Haugen said Arctic Dolphin is a key exercise for both Norway and NATO. “The participation of NATO’s Standing NATO Maritime Group One (SNMG1) is particularly important, as it underscores the Alliance’s commitment to maintaining a credible and persistent presence in the High North,” he said.
“It also provides valuable opportunities for combined training with multiple NATO Allies,” Haugen added. Norway is contributing the frigate KNM Thor Heyerdahl and an Ula class submarine, alongside Allied submarines, frigates, aircraft and helicopters from several NATO nations.
Commander of SNMG1, Spanish Navy Rear Admiral Joaquin Ruiz Escagedo, said the exercise tested Allied forces in realistic conditions. “Arctic Dolphin provided an invaluable opportunity for NATO maritime forces to operate together at sea in a realistic and challenging maritime environment to hone our tactical skills in anti-submarine warfare,” he said.
A central objective of the exercise is the certification of new submarine commanders, who practise evading detection by Allied surface and air units. “Arctic Dolphin provides high-end, realistic training for both submarine crews and future commanding officers,” said Norwegian Navy Captain Jim Robertsen, Head of the Norwegian Submarine Service.
The exercise also reinforces NATO’s focus on the strategically important Greenland–Iceland–United Kingdom gap and the protection of key sea lines of communication. Through Arctic Dolphin 26, NATO and Norway aim to strengthen readiness, interoperability and maritime security across the North Atlantic and the High North.
