The Norwegian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the country will acquire the Type 26 Global Combat Ship from the United Kingdom, selecting it as the future backbone of the Royal Norwegian Navy. This procurement marks the largest defense investment in Norway’s history and is aimed at significantly enhancing anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
Displacing around 6,900 tonnes, the British-designed Type 26 frigates feature a quiet propulsion system, Sea Ceptor air defense missiles, a 127 mm naval gun, advanced sonar arrays, and a large flight deck for helicopters and unmanned systems. Specifically tailored for submarine detection in the North Atlantic, these ships provide cutting-edge capability in modern naval competition.
With Norway’s 25,000 km coastline and strategic access to both the Arctic and the North Atlantic, maritime dominance is a national security imperative. By aligning with the UK, Oslo not only secures advanced naval technology but also ensures close NATO interoperability, joint training, industrial cooperation, and technology transfer.
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2030, with the new vessels expected to remain in service into the 2060s. The upcoming intergovernmental agreement between London and Oslo will frame contract negotiations with BAE Systems, covering cost, configuration, delivery timelines, and industrial participation.
This decision positions Norway as a stronger maritime power within NATO’s northern flank while laying the foundation for a highly interoperable naval force alongside the Royal Navy.
