Oslo (Agencies): Norway has announced plans to establish a new NATO Arctic and amphibious warfare center in the northern municipality of Sorreisa, aimed at training US, British, and Dutch marines for operations in extreme climates. The facility, positioned several hundred kilometers from Russia’s strategic Arctic port of Murmansk, is set to become fully operational by 2026, the Norwegian Defense Ministry revealed on Friday.
Defense Minister Bjorn Arild Gram highlighted the need for enhanced allied cooperation to bolster Norway’s and NATO’s readiness. “We must train together to be able to defend Norway, the Nordic countries, and NATO in crisis and war,” Gram stated, underscoring the nation’s heightened focus on security amid a “more serious security policy situation.”
The new hub will house several hundred troops and operate closely with existing military facilities in the region. Gram emphasized that increased allied presence and joint training in Norway’s challenging Arctic climate would significantly strengthen the country’s defense capabilities.
The announcement follows Norway’s unveiling of a historic $54 billion defense spending plan for 2024-2036. The package includes acquiring long-range air defense systems, expanding the army from one to three brigades, and increasing the Home Guard’s size to 45,000 troops.
Russia has expressed concern over NATO’s increasing activities in the Arctic. In September, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned that Moscow is prepared to defend its interests in the region against NATO’s expansion. “We see how NATO is stepping up exercises related to possible crises in the Arctic. Our country is fully prepared to defend its interests in military, political, and military-technical terms,” Lavrov stated.
The Sorreisa center reflects Norway’s strategic commitment to Arctic security and NATO’s broader efforts to enhance readiness in the region amid escalating geopolitical tensions.