Knut Storberget, who leads the Defense Commission for the Norwegian government, urged Oslo to bolster its defense capacity, warning that current spending had drifted into an unrealistically high plateau. The emphasis was clear: strengthening national security should become a priority, and the country must rethink its security posture in light of evolving threats and responsibilities.
Storberget cautioned that the measures in place are not sufficient for the future. He stressed that the risk landscape is shifting and that the nation cannot rely on outdated plans. The defense strategy must adapt, with resources aligned to anticipated needs rather than historical assumptions. In his view, this requires a more proactive approach to funding and capability development that can withstand emerging challenges and harsh geopolitical realities.
As part of the discussion, the commission called for immediate action on the defense budget, arguing that a substantial increase was necessary to maintain credible deterrence and operational readiness. The targeted adjustment was expressed as a NOK 30 billion uplift starting in 2024, a move viewed as essential to preserving Norway’s security commitments and regional stability.
Beyond the budget debate, the commission noted Norway’s ongoing role as a key energy supplier and the implications for its defense planning. The country’s oil sector, with its expanding exploration and extraction activities in northern offshore regions, underpins a broader strategic outlook. Strengthened defense capabilities would help ensure uninterrupted energy resilience and protect critical infrastructure in the Barents Sea and surrounding areas.
In essence, the commission argued that the nation must move from revised, incremental steps toward a robust, forward-looking defense framework. This would involve aligning procurement, personnel training, and international cooperation with a vision that matches the pace of geopolitical change. The aim is clear: to safeguard national interests, deter potential aggressors, and reassure allies that Norway remains a reliable contributor to regional security.—