By Leila Nezirevic
LONDON (A) - Norway plans to almost double its defense budget by 2036 with plans to spend on 600 billion kroner ($56 billion) in a bid to adapt to threats from Russia, especially its navy and air capabilities, the government said in a statement Friday.
“Providing security for the people of Norway is the government’s most fundamental task. We need a defense that is fit for purpose in the emerging security environment,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store told a press conference in Oslo.
“This plan represents a historic boost in defense spending and involves a significant strengthening of all branches of the Armed Forces,” he added.
The new yearly defense spending in 2036 will be around 83% higher than the current level, the finance minister said.
"We must expect that Norway will live with a more dangerous and unpredictable Russia for many years," the government said in a paper submitted to parliament.
"The relationship with Russia will for a long time to come be demanding, and in many ways defining for Norwegian security and defense policy.”
Norway is a maritime nation with a strong maritime legacy, and for that reason Oslo plans to strengthen the Navy, with new frigates, submarines, and other vessels.
The plan also involves a robust air defense package, including Norway’s first long-range air defense system.
“We will also strengthen the land forces by expanding the army from one to three brigades and increasing the Home Guard to a total of 45,000 soldiers,” Store said.
“As our security environment is deteriorating, we need to spend more on and pay more attention to defense and preparedness,” said Finance Minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum.
Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram stressed that Norwegian security is dependent on NATO and on close allies.
Strengthened capability to receive allied reinforcements throughout the Nordic region, and the ability to operate together with allied forces, including new NATO members Sweden and Finland, is crucial, he added.