The two countries will spearhead NATO adoption of uncrewed systems in the North Sea. 

Norway and the UK have signed a major new defence agreement to protect North Atlantic critical infrastructure, citing the increased threat posed by Russia. 

It follows a 30% increase in the number of Russian vessels operating around UK waters in the past two years, threatening power, energy, and communications. 

The deal, called the ‘Lunna House Agreement’, was announced on 4 December by the UK Government during a visit by Norway’s Prime Minister, Jonas Støre, at RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland. 

Recognising the threat from Russia, both leaders have agreed to develop offshore support vessels as part of the agreement, which will act as motherships for uncrewed mine hunting and undersea warfare systems to protect the High North region. 

These will be supported by a joint fleet of Type-26 anti-submarine warfare frigates, following an announcement in September that Norway would acquire four vessels under a GBP10 billion deal.  

According to the UK Government, the deal means the two countries will take a leadership role in the High North, especially when it comes to autonomous systems.  

This announcement coincides with the UK’s unveiling of its new ‘Atlantic Bastion’ technical strategy, which seeks to create a web of undersea uncrewed vessels, warships, and aircraft (like the P-8 Poseidon) to protect undersea pipelines and cables.  

Notably Norway’s Defence Minister, Tore Sandvik, declared interest in joining Atlantic Bastion, according to the UK First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins who welcomed the move during the International Sea Power Conference in early December.  

The agreement also involves year-round training of UK troops in Norway going forward, to make sure they are prepared for combat in extreme-cold environments. Joint wargaming exercises will also take place. 

The announcement follows a slew of deals signed with Norway recently, namely the GBP10 billion Type-26 frigate deal and the UK’s decision to adopt the Naval Strike Missile in 2022 – which is made by Norway’s Kongsberg. This highlights the intensification of the two countries relationship. Notably, “deeper industrial collaboration” is also being sought on the Sting Ray torpedo to boost munitions stockpiles. 

Commenting on the agreement, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated that it “strengthens our ability to protect our borders and the critical infrastructure our nations depend on”.