Norway has chosen the United Kingdom as its strategic partner for the acquisition of new frigates, launching what officials describe as the country’s largest military investment to date. The program, valued at around £10 billion ($13.5 billion), will strengthen Norway’s maritime defense and deepen bilateral ties with London.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced the decision after months of evaluation of proposals from Britain, France, Germany, and the United States. He said the choice of Britain aligns with Norway’s long-term defense strategy and reflects both military needs and industrial cooperation. Delivery of the new vessels, the British Type 26 frigates, is expected to begin in 2030.
“These frigates are an essential part of our defense because they are key to protecting our sovereignty,” Støre said at a press conference. He noted that Norway’s parliament, the Storting, had mandated the government to identify a partner quickly, and consultations with the defense committee confirmed the approach.
The ships will patrol the North Atlantic, a vast area where NATO monitors the Russian Northern Fleet’s nuclear submarines. One of the vessels’ core tasks will be anti-submarine operations near the Kola Peninsula, where Russia maintains its submarine bases.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the agreement, stressing that it would support 4,000 jobs in the United Kingdom, including more than 2,000 in Scotland, where BAE Systems will construct the vessels. “This partnership demonstrates the strength of U.K.–Norway ties and ensures our navies can operate together seamlessly in the years to come,” Starmer said.
The plan foresees a combined fleet of at least 13 anti-submarine frigates — eight British and five Norwegian — that will conduct joint operations in northern waters. Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik said the decision will allow both countries to train crews, maintain vessels, and even exchange personnel in the future, making operations more efficient.
Norway currently operates four frigates, and the government has indicated it may order up to six new ones under the agreement. The new ships will be equipped with anti-submarine helicopters, though Oslo has yet to decide which model to purchase. Officials also said they are exploring unmanned technologies that could complement the frigates’ missions.
Industrial cooperation is a major element of the deal. London has guaranteed agreements with Norwegian industry equal in value to the overall contract. This will provide opportunities for Norwegian firms to compete for work in maintaining and upgrading the ships throughout their service life. “This is positive for Norwegian industry and jobs. The industry will play a vital role in keeping the vessels modern and operational,” Støre said.
The Type 26, also known as the City-class in the Royal Navy, has already been selected by Australia and Canada, making Norway the fourth operator of the design. The ships are built primarily for anti-submarine warfare but can also conduct air defense and general combat missions.
Final negotiations between the two governments and BAE Systems will now begin, covering price, delivery schedules, and specific industrial projects. Once completed, the agreement will return to the Storting for investment approval.
“This partnership strengthens both our navies and NATO’s ability to secure the High North,” Støre said. “It ensures our forces remain ready to meet the challenges of the decades ahead.”
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