Norway Allocates $945M to Equip and Train Ukrainian Brigade

Norway has announced it will pledge 10 billion Norwegian kroner ($945 million) to equip and train a Ukrainian brigade.

Under Norwegian leadership, the initiative will also involve the cooperation of Nordic and Baltic countries working closely with Ukrainian authorities to ensure the training and equipment align with Kyiv’s operational needs.

Oslo’s contribution of military equipment will include defense materials supplied by Norway, and purchases from Ukrainian and international industries.

“The support will go to material that is most important for Ukraine in its defense against Russia. We will continue to direct support towards, among other things, maritime security and air defense, as well as drones and autonomous systems,” stated Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik.

The Norwegian government’s support will focus on strengthening smaller units within an existing brigade rather than creating a new one.

Brigades, typically made up of 3,000 to 5,000 soldiers, operate as independent combat units with various arms.

Building smaller “blocks” aims to enhance the operational capability of a brigade, enhancing its ability to adapt to changing field conditions.

Norway’s Support for Kyiv

Norway has committed to significantly increasing its military aid to Ukraine in 2025, more than doubling its initial pledge. 

In March, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced that the total support for this year would reach $7.8 billion, a sharp rise from the $2.05 billion stated in January. This marks the largest military aid package in Norway’s history.

Additionally, Norway is contributing to a British-led coalition to fund the procurement of military assets like radar systems and drones to support Ukraine.