NASAMS sensors to be deployed along Norway’s border with Russia
According to the Norwegian Armed Forces, the sensors will be able to detect and alert about stray drones.
A new special unit is being established at the Ranger Battalion GSV in Kirkenes, northern Norway, in order to strengthen air surveillance along the border with Russia. The unit will operate NASAMS sensors, the Ministry of Defence reports.
The sensors will be able to report on stray drones, according to Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik. He emphasises that the deployment is a preventative measure and that the threat level in the area remains unchanged.
"We have seen in other countries that drones can go astray. This is something Norway takes seriously. We must be prepared, even though we do not currently see an elevated air threat to Norway or the population of Finnmark," Sandvik says.
"The experience from Ukraine shows just how important it is to have a good overview and to receive early warning. These sensors will strengthen our ability to detect drones in Finnmark," he adds.
A team of 30 servicemen will operate the sensors.
In a press release, the County Governor of Troms and Finnmark argues that Ukrainian drones targeting the Kola Peninsula could ultimately end up on the Norwegian side of the border because of GPS jamming.
"Although the risk of this happening in Norway is considered to be very low, it cannot be ruled out that, for example, Russian GPS jamming in the north could cause Ukrainian drones to head towards Norway."
According to the County Governor, the new air defence sensors are a preventative measure. At the same time, the regional authority explicitly outlines procedures for emergency situations.
"In cases where stray drones may pose an immediate threat to life and health in Norway, the police will send an emergency alert to mobile phones in the affected areas. This alert will contain information on what recipients should do to protect themselves," the County Governor explains.
Under certain circumstances, people must be prepared to seek shelter.
"In many situations, seeking shelter where you are may be safer than travelling long distances to find protection. You should then go down to the cellar, if one is available, move inside the building, and stay away from windows. If the building does not have a basement, you should seek shelter in areas of the building where the structure is solid, such as stairwells."
The sensors are likely to be electro-optical sensors developed by the Norwegian military technology company Kongsberg.
As previously reported, Norway’s new Finnmark Brigade is in the process of acquiring new surface-to-air missile systems. The NASAMS is likely to be the preferred weapon.
