- Ukraine is now in the fourth winter following the invasion. The nation faces enormous military, civilian, and humanitarian needs as a consequence of Russian attacks. The new agreement between Norway and France permits us to cooperate on delivery of capabilities that Ukraine needs, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The agreement provides an opportunity for Norway and France to cooperate on donating unique and desired defence materiel, through acquisitions from French industry or donations from French stocks. As a first step Norway contributes with about 4,2 billion NOK and France guarantees for a loan of about 3 billion NOK.

A new agreement between France and Norway provides new capabilities to Ukraine within the areas of surveillance and situational awareness, and aerial bombs.
A new agreement between France and Norway provides new capabilities to Ukraine within the areas of surveillance and situational awareness, and aerial bombs. Credit: Marita Hundershagen / Norwegian MoD
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Last year Norway and France signed an agreement to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

- France is becoming a more important ally to Norway. Last year we signed a strategic partnership, which caters for closer security cooperation. The cooperation to support Ukraine is yet another expression of finding together to enhance European security, says Støre.

- The projects in this agreement meet crucial Ukraine priorities and have been identified following close dialogue with the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence. The projects we have identified in this agreement will provide rapid effects for Ukraine, says Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik.

The agreement includes acquisition of a large volume air-to-ground weapons and capabilities that provide surveillance and situational awareness from the French defence industry.

- The air-to-ground weapons are flexible glide bombs launched form combat aircraft that Ukraine currently operates. Ukraine already has positive experience with these weapons. Now we are making sure Ukraine gets the weapons they have asked for, concludes the Defence Minister.