

– We are also looking at further investments in other capacities for the land force, such as long-range precision fire. The acquisition is within the cost limit of NOK 19.7 billion set by the Norwegian parliament. The MBTs will be phased in from 2026 through 2031. The Government will initially buy 54 MBTs, with an option of acquiring a further 18 units. The procurement and industrial cooperation on main battle tanks with Germany builds on and reinforces an already established strategic materiel and industrial cooperation, says the Minister of Defence. – Germany is among our main partners in the field of defence and security policy. Astonishingly futuristic new tech creates a seemingly invisible, impenetrable, protective bubble around military armored vehicles making enemy attempts to fire at U.S. We have highly skilled and motivated personnel operating our current MBTs, and we are happy to announce that we have now chosen to buy a new modern version, says Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram. By upgrading our defence with modern equipment, we make NATO stronger, which is paramount in the current security situation. MBTs are also central in fulfilling our obligations to NATO. – Main Battle Tanks are the Army's main combat system in Norway and for our most important allies. Minister of Finance Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram at the press conference at Rena 3 February 2023.Ĭredit: Asgeir Spange Brekke / Forsvarsdepartementet Based on an overall assessment of all relevant factors and conditions, the Government has concluded that the German alternative with Leopard 2 is the best for Norway. Other factors considered and influencing the assessment include industrial cooperation opportunities, operational cooperation, logistics and life-cycle support. The army has compared two strong candidates, and tests confirm both are excellent, modern vehicles meeting all requirements for a modern MBT capacity. This investment increases our combat power on land, will strengthen the Norwegian Army significantly, while also offering great opportunities for Norwegian defence industry and work force through industrial cooperation, says Minister of Finance Trygve Slagsvold Vedum. Securing Norway new tanks is an important part of this preparedness. The government prioritizes defense and preparedness. – Ensuring everyone's safety through national preparedness is one of the most important tasks we have as political leaders. We are also forging closer security policy ties with Germany, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. By procuring German tanks, we ensure that Norway has the same type of tanks as our Nordic neighbors and close allies. In today's security situation, European defence cooperation is becoming increasingly important. – New main battle tanks are of great importance to the Armed Forces, significantly strengthening the Army. Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development
