The funding falls under the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, an initiative aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defence amidst continued Russian attacks. According to Prime Minister Støre, the primary goal is to protect Ukrainian civilians, with air defence remaining a priority need since the start of the war.
Previously, Norway has prioritised Ukraine’s air defence by supplying resources through both national stores and collaborative international programmes. In recent years, Norway has contributed the NASAMS air defence system and trained Ukrainian personnel to operate similar equipment, underscoring its commitment to Ukraine’s defence preparedness.
Earlier this year, Norway allocated an additional NOK 4 billion to air defence, aligning with the German-led initiative to procure Patriot missiles for Ukraine. This past summer, during the NATO Summit, the Norwegian government pledged NOK 1 billion towards donating a complete IRIS-T air defence battery in cooperation with Germany, alongside essential equipment repairs.
Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasised the critical need for adequate air defence, particularly to safeguard both Ukraine’s civilian population and vital infrastructure through winter. “Without air defence, Ukraine cannot protect its military and its citizens,” Gram stated, urging for sustained Western support for Ukraine’s defensive needs.