Norway buys more subs for 'turbulent times' in the North Atlantic
"We are a coastal and maritime nation and submarines are a crucial part of our defence," says Defence Minister Tore O Sandvik as the Nordic country announces the acquisition of another two subs from Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems.
Norway in 2021 signed a contract with the German yard on the building of four new submarines. This week, the country's Defence Minister announced that another two subs will be acquired.
"Submarines are an important strategic asset in Norwegian waters, helping to deter potential adversaries and strengthen the defence of Norwegian interests in turbulent times," Minister Tore O Sandvik says.
The Type 212CD class is be based on Germany's Type 212 submarine class, but will be significantly larger. It will also feature a new stealth design. They are designed for covert, shallow water operations.
The acquisition of the two additional vessels are in line with the recommendations of the Norwegian Chief of Defence Eirik Kristoffersen.
It all comes on the backdrop of an increasingly tense geopolitical situation in the High North. According to Minister Sandvik, there is a significant need for increased deterrence in the region.
"We are seeing increased activity from Russian forces in the North Atlantic and the Barents Sea," he explains.
He emphasises that "Norway is NATO's eyes and ears in the north."
"This places greater demands on our ability to demonstrate our presence, monitor and deter in our neighbouring areas. In this context, submarines are absolutely indispensable."
With a fleet of six new submarines, the Norway will be able to operate in several areas across the North Atlantic at any given time.
"It will have a strong deterrent effect on a potential adversary," Tore O Sandvik says.
The acquisition comes at a high price. The current weapons race has resulted in a boost in defence construction costs.
The Defence Ministry now calls on the Storting, the country's parliament, to approve a 46 billion kroner (€3,91 billion) extension of the submarine program.
The investments are to cover also the development of a new production line at the German yard.
