Denmark and Norway to 'increase cooperation' on defence
Denmark and Norway announced on Tuesday their plans to enhance defense cooperation amid a "challenging" security landscape in Europe.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre emphasized the necessity for both countries to bolster their defense capabilities and highlighted the benefits of closer collaboration. He stated, “This will not only strengthen the defense of both nations but will also enhance overall Nordic and Northern European defense capabilities.”
In a joint statement, the two nations acknowledged the need for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own defense and confirmed that they would significantly increase their defense spending. Støre met with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Oslo to discuss this enhanced partnership, with specific details set to be revealed in May.
“We are already working together on maintaining the F-35 aircraft. By investing in platforms, weapon systems, joint sensors, and ammunition, we can lower both purchasing and maintenance costs,” Støre noted.
Both Norway and Denmark are NATO members and have been key contributors to military aid for Ukraine. Recently, the Danish government announced an additional allocation of 50 billion krone (approximately $7 billion) for defense from 2025 to 2026, raising its defense spending to 3 percent of GDP.
Frederiksen commented to Danish news agency Ritzau, “All European countries are in the same situation—we are prepared to spend more, but purchasing can be challenging. This may necessitate closer collaboration regarding capabilities.”
European allies are increasingly discussing the need for enhanced defense investments in response to Russian aggression and uncertain support from the U.S. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently pledged to increase defense spending to 2.5 percent of the economy by 2027. Meanwhile, Germany's conservative leader Friedrich Merz, following his party’s election victory, stated that strengthening European security would be his "absolute priority."
Concerns have grown over U.S. President Donald Trump's commitment to European security, particularly given his calls for European nations to contribute more financially to their own defense.
