Ukraine and Norway have initiated their first collaborative effort to manufacture Ukrainian drones on Norwegian soil, with plans to produce thousands of mid-strike drones for the Ukrainian Armed Forces by summer 2023.
This agreement was signed in Kyiv by Lars Ragnar Aalerud Hansen, Norway’s ambassador to Ukraine, and Serhiy Boyev, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Defense for European Integration.
Officials expect this partnership to enhance the production of Ukrainian technologies that have already proven effective in combat, thereby bolstering the defense capabilities of both nations.
Norway will finance the project through additional funds allocated beyond the previously committed $7 billion in defense support for Ukraine by 2026. This year, Norway aims to allocate over $1.5 billion specifically for the procurement of Ukrainian-made weapons for its defense forces.
“Joint production projects and guaranteed supply of drones directly strengthen our forces on the battlefield. Norway gains the ability to produce technologies that have demonstrated their effectiveness, while Ukraine receives the drones necessary to seize the initiative on the front lines. This is a true win-win partnership,” stated Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
The agreement also includes plans for comprehensive industrial cooperation, which will involve joint research initiatives.
“Supporting Ukraine’s fight is the most crucial action we can take for Norway’s security. This collaboration benefits both countries and represents a significant step toward deepening Norwegian-Ukrainian ties, while simultaneously strengthening Norway’s defense industry and enabling Ukraine to produce drones safely on Norwegian territory,” remarked Norway’s Defense Minister Tore Onshuus Sandvik.
According to Sandvik, the experience gained from this project will allow Norway to expand its production capabilities in this critical area.
The first systems produced in Norway are expected to be delivered to the Ukrainian Armed Forces by summer 2023.
Ukraine and Norway have embarked on a joint venture to produce drones, enhancing both nations' defense capabilities. The initiative aims to deliver thousands of drones to Ukraine by summer 2023, supported by significant Norwegian funding.