All of Europe dreamed of such a partnership. Ukrainian production to launch in Norway
Norway and Ukraine have signed a letter of intent to launch Ukrainian drone production on Norwegian territory. The project is set to start quickly, with the first production line scheduled to open in 2026. Authorities from both countries emphasize that the cooperation will also include technology exchange and research development.
The project highlights the growing importance of drone technology in European defense.
/zdjęcie poglądowe, fot. Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej Ukrainy (Flickr.com, (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The Norwegian Ministry of Defense announced that the goal is to establish a production line in 2026 and expand it in the following months. Once production is complete, the drones will be sent to Ukraine as defense support.
Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik noted that the agreement will strengthen cooperation between the Norwegian and Ukrainian drone sectors. According to the ministry, the project aims to increase production capacity and strengthen European security.
Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik noted that the agreement will strengthen cooperation between the Norwegian and Ukrainian drone sectors. According to the ministry, the project aims to increase production capacity and strengthen European security.
Joint technology and research
The document was signed by Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal and Norwegian Minister Tore O. Sandvik during the Joint Expeditionary Force meeting in Bodø at the beginning of November.
Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine will provide Norway with its technology and expertise. In return, it will gain access to Norwegian production capabilities, enabling the delivery of modern drones to soldiers. The Ukrainian minister added that the cooperation will create new opportunities for research and development.
Shmyhal emphasized that Ukraine will provide Norway with its technology and expertise. In return, it will gain access to Norwegian production capabilities, enabling the delivery of modern drones to soldiers. The Ukrainian minister added that the cooperation will create new opportunities for research and development.
Ukraine brings its drone know-how to the project.Photo: Adobe Stock, standard license (illustrative photo)
Norwegian drone industry in the project
The Norwegian government hopes that the joint project will increase national competencies in the field of drones. The initiative will involve a research institute, technology companies, and the national drone industry.
The goal is to build a strong specialist environment. State Secretary Marte Gerhardsen reported that Ukraine wants to start receiving drones as soon as possible, although no specific date has been set yet.
The goal is to build a strong specialist environment. State Secretary Marte Gerhardsen reported that Ukraine wants to start receiving drones as soon as possible, although no specific date has been set yet.
Minister Sandvik is set to present the government's drone strategy. The document will outline the directions for the development of Norwegian drone defense and will be linked to the new cooperation with Ukraine. Authorities emphasize that these actions are in response to an urgent request from President Volodymyr Zelensky and are intended to support Ukraine in its difficult military situation.
How do you rate this article?