A combined effort to strengthen the defence of Norway

2015-04-28 Draft version
SUMMARY
A combined effort to strengthen the defence of Norway
A new threat and risk environment demands significant measures to strengthen Norway’s
defence. The Armed Forces, the society at large and Norway’s allies need to join forces in a
combined effort to create a «new normal».
 Russia will remain the defining factor of Norwegian defence planning in the foreseeable
future. The crisis in Ukraine marks the end of the “deep peace” in Europe. The build-up of
the Russian military underscores the asymmetry of Norwegian-Russian power relations.
At the same time, the Asia-Pacific is of increased geoeconomic and geopolitical
significance. Terrorism, cyberattacks and long range missiles are evidence that
geographical distance has lost some of its relevance. These threats and risks have a strong
impact on Norwegian security.
 Changes in the threat and risk environment demand a «new normal». The task of
handling such complex challenges is too large for the Norwegian Armed Forces and
Norway to address alone. The Expert Commission on Norwegian Security and Defence
Policy therefore suggests a combined effort by the Armed Forces, the society at large and
Norway’s allies. The Armed Forces must invest more in operational capability. Norwegian
society should contribute through conscription and the Total Defence Concept, as well as
by ensuring a sound economic framework for the Armed Forces. Norway needs to take an
active role in building a strong NATO through heightened cooperation with close allies.
At the same time, Norway’s relationship with Russia must be managed wisely, based on
common interests.
 Five priority areas are particularly important for creating a strong war-preventing
defence: Better intelligence and surveillance; a more robust strategic decision-making
mechanism to manage crises; credible deterrence; Norwegian and allied forces ready and
able on short notice, and Norwegian forces present in exposed areas at all times;
sufficient logistical support.
 As important as a combined effort is the principle of simultaneity in preparedness,
planning and operations. The Armed Forces’ logistical requirements should be met where
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2015-04-28 Draft version
and when needed. Furthermore, Norway must avoid a defensive war separated into
phases. Such an approach would run the risk of Norway having to act independently in
the initial, crucial phase. Credible deterrence must build upon allied engagement from
the very outset of a severe crisis. Escalation must be as seamless as possible, ensuring
that the build-up of Norwegian forces and allied reinforcement take place simultaneously
and in an integrated manner.
 In order to strengthen intelligence, presence, preparedness, endurance and support to
military forces in Norway, the Expert Commission suggests increasing the appropriation
level by 2 bn NOK by 2017. Investment in new submarines should be provided for by
additional funding. Also, the Armed Forces should increase efficiency and reallocate a
minimum of 3,5 bn NOK per year by 2020 from supporting areas to operational
capabilities. 10 years from now these measures will provide an additional 7,5 bn NOK per
year to the Armed Forces’ operational activities.
An extensive Norwegian effort, combined with support from allies, will establish a new
normal and enable a strong and credible defence of Norway.
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