Ukraine and Norway have embarked on a collaborative venture to produce mid-strike drones, as announced by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense on April 27. The initiative aims to manufacture several thousand drones on Norwegian soil, with all products designated for the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
The agreement was formalized in Kyiv, where Norwegian Ambassador Lars Ragnar Aalerud Hansen and Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Defense for European Integration, Serhiy Boiev, signed the contract. This project will be financed by Norway, utilizing funds in addition to the previously allocated $7 billion in defense support for Ukraine through 2026.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized that this partnership will enhance the production capabilities of Ukrainian technologies, which have already demonstrated their effectiveness in combat, thereby strengthening the defense capabilities of both nations.
Norway plans to invest over $1.5 billion this year in procuring weapons produced in Ukraine for the Ukrainian military. Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted that joint production projects and the provision of drones will bolster Ukraine’s military presence on the battlefield.
“Norway gains the ability to produce technologies that have proven effective, while Ukraine receives the drones necessary to regain initiative on the front. This is a true win-win partnership,”
he stated.
The first drone systems produced in Norway are expected to be delivered to the Ukrainian Defense Forces by summer. The agreement also includes provisions for developing comprehensive industrial cooperation, including research initiatives.
The Norwegian Ministry of Defense has confirmed the agreement. Minister Tore Onshuus Sandvik noted that supporting Ukraine’s defense is crucial for Norway’s own security. He expressed satisfaction that Norway is rapidly implementing the objectives outlined in the drone strategy announced last December.
“This is an important and concrete step towards deepening Norwegian-Ukrainian cooperation, strengthening Norway’s defense industry, and providing essential assistance to Ukraine, allowing it to produce drones in a secure environment in Norway,”
Sandvik added.
According to Sandvik, the experience gained from this project will enable Norway to enhance its production capabilities in this critical area.
On April 14, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre took the initial step towards the Drone Deal by signing a Joint Declaration to deepen cooperation in defense and security.
Ukraine and Norway have established a joint initiative to produce drones, enhancing military capabilities for both nations. This collaboration is set to deliver thousands of drones to Ukraine by summer 2023, marking a significant step in defense cooperation.