Norway to allocate over €100 million for procurement of naval drones for Ukraine

Olha Kovalchuk, Alona Mazurenko - 9 June, 17:07

Ukrainian and Norwegian flags. Photo: Getty Images

The Norwegian government has announced the allocation of NOK 1.2 billion (€109 million) this year for the development and procurement of naval drones for Ukraine.

Source: statement by the Norwegian government, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The funds, provided under the Nansen Programme, will be used for the development, procurement and delivery of maritime unmanned systems from both Norwegian and Ukrainian defence industries.

"Norway's maritime industry is a world leader. I am pleased that this expertise can also be used to support Ukraine's fight for freedom. Ukraine is using maritime drones for reconnaissance, offensive operations and protection against Russian attacks," said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

On 9 June, Jonas Gahr Støre met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting of Nordic and Baltic leaders in Tallinn.

As emphasised by the Norwegian government, these unmanned systems will play a crucial role in ensuring the security of grain exports and other goods through the Black Sea.

Norway and the United Kingdom lead the Maritime Capability Coalition in support of Ukraine. Since its establishment in 2023, the government has stressed the use of Norwegian maritime expertise and industry to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

Background:

It was recently reported that Ukraine and Norway are establishing their first joint production of Ukrainian drones, with plans to manufacture several thousand mid-strike drones on Norwegian territory.
The project will be financed by Norway using funds allocated in addition to the previously planned US$7 billion in defence support for Ukraine in 2026.
On 14 April, Ukraine and Norway signed a declaration on defence partnership. Under the declaration, Norway, among other commitments, undertakes to support the production of Ukrainian drones, while Ukraine commits to sharing its experience, data and other relevant information with Norway.

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