Norway Launches a Large-Scale Project for Overwater Unmanned Surface Vessels in Ukraine
As part of a new strategy to support security initiatives and expand cooperation with Ukraine, Norway announced its intention to establish and produce overwater drones directly on Ukrainian territory. This decision was confirmed by the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, emphasizing the strategic nature of the initiative and its importance for strengthening the defense capabilities of both countries. Funding Amounts and Strategic Goals According to an official statement from the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, a substantial financial resource—around 6.7 billion Norwegian kroner, approximately 580 million euros—has been allocated to support the so-called "maritime coalition," led by Norway in collaboration with the United Kingdom. These funds are aimed at various aspects of modernizing maritime security, including the development and production of unmanned vessels in partnership with Ukrainian companies and specialists. Norwegian Defense Minister Tord Lien stated that a significant portion of these funds will be directed toward creating innovative overwater drones utilizing advanced technologies, particularly in the field of KDA (Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace), a leading player in defense electronics and unmanned systems. Joint Production in Focus An important development is the signing of an agreement between the Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and a Ukrainian partner regarding the joint development and manufacturing of overwater unmanned vessels in Ukraine. Representatives from both sides noted that this cooperation is not only technical but also strategic, facilitating technology transfer, strengthening Ukraine’s defense-industrial complex, and increasing Ukraine’s capabilities in the maritime domain. Background and Geopolitical Context It should be noted that this project is part of a broader strategic cooperation in the defense and security sectors. Ahead of the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Norwegian Defense Minister Tord Lien, both sides reiterated their willingness to deepen collaboration. Discussions included investing in the production of Ukrainian weapons, such as drones and long-range missiles, as well as scaling up joint defense industry projects. Additionally, within the framework of international cooperation, Norwegian and Ukrainian military personnel are already participating in joint training exercises for unmanned system operators in Trøndelag, as part of Operation Gungne. Starting April 2025, Norway officially joined the so-called “Drone Coalition” for Ukraine, aimed at enhancing the security and defensive capacity of Ukraine in the maritime space. Conclusions Thus, cooperation between Norway and Ukraine in the field of advanced unmanned technologies is one of the key priorities in the current international security framework. Establishing manufacturing capacities for producing overwater drones in Ukraine, along with Norwegian funding for such projects, will contribute to strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the maritime domain and enhance our integration into Euro-Atlantic security structures. This reflects growing trust and strategic partnership, enabling Ukraine to better protect its interests in volatile regions and counter external challenges in today’s world.