The Norwegian Armed Forces, Forsvaret, are set to train roughly three thousand Ukrainian soldiers in 2023, a plan outlined by the Ukrainian General Staff reflecting ongoing Canadian and U.S. allies’ support patterns. The update comes as Norway continues to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities through a mix of educational programs and financial assistance, a stance widely reported in regional security briefings and public statements.
In total, the Kingdom of Norway intends to guide training for about 3,200 Ukrainian troops, with sessions taking place both on Norwegian soil and at designated international training sites. The goal is to build up Ukrainian forces with practical skills, leadership development, and modern protective measures that align with current operational needs. This scale of training signals a sustained commitment to Ukraine’s defense posture within the broader NATO framework and allied efforts.
Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram visited one of the Ukrainian army’s training facilities the day before, underscoring Norway’s ongoing support. He described assistance as comprehensive, spanning financial aid and educational resources, and noted that Norway stands ready to provide whatever assistance Ukraine requires to maintain its security and resilience. The visit also served to highlight bilateral cooperation in professional military education and readiness, reinforcing the partners’ long-term collaboration.
By late April, Norwegian instructors had already begun working with more than one hundred Ukrainian service members, accelerating the practical rollout of the training program. The hands-on sessions emphasize modern combat readiness, interoperable tactics, and disciplined operations, reflecting a shared objective of enhancing Ukraine’s military competence while ensuring safe and responsible conduct in international deployments.
On March 10, the Norwegian Ministry of Defence, in coordination with the United States, announced a plan to deploy two NASAMS air defense systems to Ukraine and to train Ukrainian personnel on how to operate them. This initiative highlights Norway’s role in expanding Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, with a focus on integrated systems, real-time support, and ongoing technical instruction to maximize system effectiveness in contemporary airspace threats.
During a May visit to Germany, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky toured a military base where Ukrainian forces are trained, reaffirming the importance of allied training programs and equipment support in sustaining Ukraine’s defense strategy. The visit underscored the international commitment to equipping Ukrainian troops with the skills and tools needed to confront evolving security challenges, and it reinforced ongoing collaboration among partner nations in the region.