‘Defence cooperation between Norway and the UK is vital in light of the serious security situation. Here we are cooperating on operations and on the training of pilots and crews for P-8 Poseidon aircraft. This is essential for our collective security,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The two Prime Ministers arrived at RAF Lossiemouth together and were given a tour of a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. They met British and Norwegian pilots and crews and observed a Quick Reaction Alert exercise involving British Typhoon fighter jets. They also participated in a Christmas event for military personnel from Norway and the UK and their families.

Strengthening NATO and the defence cooperation

Earlier today, the Norwegian and UK Ministers of Defence signed a comprehensive Norwegian-UK defence agreement that represents a historic strengthening of defence cooperation between Norway and the UK.

‘The UK is our most important European ally, and the new defence agreement clearly illustrates this. Norway and the UK stand united in safeguarding European security and promoting a strong NATO. The British presence in the High North is of the utmost importance. We are allies in NATO, allies in the north, and allies in supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom and sovereignty,’ said Prime Minister Støre.

The new agreement sets out new areas of cooperation such as anti-submarine warfare and maritime capabilities, reinforcement and military presence in Norway, autonomous systems in the High North, climate-related defence issues and research and development. This will ensure that Norway and the UK continue to play a key role in NATO’s collective defence.