2 Strategic priorities
The Norwegian Armed Forces’ needs and prioritised tasks shall guide the procurement of uncrewed systems within the defence structure. Drones shall support the Norwegian Armed Forces’ ability to maintain situational awareness and to monitor areas of interest, defend Norwegian and allied territory, protect infrastructure, and provide military support to key societal functions. The strategic priorities reflect the recognition that Norway faces a significant need to both protect itself against an increasingly complex threat and also leverage new technological opportunities. The Government’s four overarching and consistent priorities for the use of and defence against drones provide guidance for underlying objectives and measures.
Strengthen counter-drone capability
There have been significant developments in offensive operations involving the use of drones. Drones can strike both military targets and critical societal areas within the civil domain. Norway must have adequate and effective countermeasures in place to address this threat. Therefore, strengthening counter-drone capability is a priority. Based on experiences from recent conflicts and an assessment of the Norwegian area of operations, an enhanced capability to defend against uncrewed aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles is of particular interest.
Continuously develop and introduce new technology and new concepts for the use of drones
Furthermore, priority is placed on the ability to keep pace with technological developments and the emergence of new operational concepts. This necessitates a dynamic approach in which the Norwegian Armed Forces conduct extensive experimentation within operational units, gather insights, and strengthen technological expertise, enabling rapid translation of experience into operational use and further development of the Armed Forces. Increased experimentation and use of drones will provide valuable experience that will lay the groundwork for more extensive and improved utilisation of drones in the future.
Increased cooperation with civil sectors and allies
The Government will prioritise strengthening cooperation between the defence sector and civil sectors, as well as with allies. Civilian technology and expertise must be utilised across the entire value chain, from research and development to production, support, and operational deployment. In many cases, uncrewed systems constitute dual-use technology with both civil and military utility. The potential lies in linking these together. Through cooperation with allies and international partners, Norway shall strengthen interoperability, production capacity, security of supply, and access to technology.
Make long-term investments in technology and expertise
Long-term programmes and initiatives for research and development (R&D) and innovation shall be designed to strengthen the Norwegian Armed Forces’ capacity to address threats posed by drones and to ensure the effective use of drones. Investments in areas of technological expertise, cf. Prop. 87 S (2023–2024) Long-term Defence Plan, will be continued and, where relevant, directed towards the domain of drones. In the long term, this may lay the groundwork for uncrewed and autonomous systems to contribute to a larger transformation of the Norwegian Armed Forces. Emphasis shall be placed on strengthening the ability to operate drones under challenging Nordic conditions in peacetime and when confronted with an adversary’s countermeasures in times of crisis and war. Smaller UAVs, maritime uncrewed systems, and related technologies shall be prioritised.