Norway Rejects Trump’s Call for Dramatic Boost in Defense Spending

"Norway Says No to Trump's Defense Spending Increase"

Norway aims to increase its defense budget to 3% of GDP by decade's end, driven by a significant frigate procurement program costing €20-30 billion.
Alex Chen21 January 2025Last Update :
Norway cool on Trump’s demand for a massive defense spending increase – POLITICO
www.politico.eu

Norway’s defense budget is set to increase as the country aims for 3 percent of its GDP by the end of the decade. Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram noted that, despite current spending levels being below this target, Norway’s economy is influenced by fluctuating oil prices, which have affected GDP figures in recent years.

6 Key Takeaways
  • U.S. defense spending debate anticipated
  • GDP percentage not the sole indicator
  • Norway's economy impacted by oil prices
  • Defense budget goal: 3% by decade's end
  • Major frigate procurement program underway
  • Strategic partnerships sought for vessel construction
Fast Answer: Norway plans to raise its defense budget to 3 percent of GDP by 2030, driven by a significant frigate procurement program costing €20-30 billion. The country is in discussions with France, Germany, the UK, and the US for strategic partnerships on this project.

The context of Norway’s defense spending is shaped by its economy, which is heavily reliant on oil exports. The global pandemic caused a notable decrease in GDP, leading to a temporary dip in defense spending to 2 percent. Gram emphasized that GDP fluctuations, rather than an increase in the defense budget, were responsible for this change during the pandemic years.

Norway’s ambitious defense plans include a procurement program for five to six advanced anti-submarine frigates, which will be equipped with onboard helicopters. This initiative is described as the largest procurement in modern Norwegian defense history, with a projected cost between €20 billion and €30 billion. The decision on the strategic partnerships for building these vessels will be finalized later this year.

Norway has approached several countries, including France, Germany, the UK, and the US, to explore collaborative opportunities for its frigate program. This move reflects a broader trend among NATO allies to bolster defense capabilities amid global security concerns.

Notice: Canadian readers should note that increased defense spending in NATO countries may influence Canada’s military budget discussions and strategic partnerships in the region.

In summary, Norway is taking significant steps to enhance its defense capabilities, with plans to increase its defense budget and procure advanced naval vessels. These developments underscore the importance of defense spending in the context of global security dynamics.

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