Norway to support Ukrainian defence industry directly

On 14.-15. November, Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram welcomed his Ukrainian counterpart, Rustem Umerov, to Oslo. Continued support for Ukraine was the key focus of their discussions.

'Ukraine's fight is existential and critical for the security of all of Europe. It is essential that we maintain and strengthen Western support for Ukraine and continually explore new ways to contribute to their struggle,' said Gram.

Maximising production capacity

Denmark has established a financing model for Ukrainian projects that enable direct acquisition from Ukrainian industry to Ukrainian forces. Norway intends to join this mechanism, which offers a proven framework to ensure Norwegian funds swiftly have an impact on the ground in Ukraine.

'Ukraine's defence industry must be enabled to produce as much equipment as possible for its armed forces. Ukrainian authorities have identified unused production capacity within the country. Through this mechanism, we aim to increase the production of weapons and ammunition and reduce the time it takes to get equipment to where it is needed most - in the hands of Ukraine's hard-fighting soldiers,' said the Defence Minister.

Close cooperation

Support to Ukraine is being provided in close dialogue with Ukrainian authorities, and Norway's contributions are based on Ukraine's identified needs. This mechanism allows Ukraine to propose specific procurements and projects, which are reviewed and approved by Danish authorities before receiving support. Monitoring systems are in place to oversee the projects. Norway and Denmark will establish an agreement governing the use of Norwegian funds.

Agreement on military supplies signed

Gram and Umerov signed a Memorandum of Understanding on military supplies, setting out general principles, goals, and frameworks for the cooperation.

'This agreement is crucial to better support Ukraine's defence efforts and develop the potential for further cooperation. Norway has so far donated various types of equipment from its own stockpiles, but moving forward, we must increasingly look for alternative ways to support Ukraine with equipment. Establishing this framework is therefore vital for facilitating further military assistance to Ukraine,' said Gram.

Umerov and Gram held a joint press conference on Friday. A recording of the press conference can be viewed here.

The Norwegian Government has previously authorised the transfer of Norwegian defence technology to Ukraine, supported by Norwegian funding.

The Government has proposed expanding the Nansen Support Programme's budget framework from NOK 75 billion to at least NOK 135 billion and extending the programme to 2030. Funding for the direct support mechanism will be provided through the Nansen Programme.