Norway has pledged nearly seven billion kroner (€600 million) to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense, the Norwegian Ministry of Defence announced on 24 August 2025. The funding will support the transfer of advanced German systems, reflecting closer Oslo–Berlin cooperation and Europe’s growing emphasis on countering Russian air attacks.
The core of the package is the joint donation of two Patriot batteries with interceptor missiles, currently in Germany’s arsenal. Washington will backfill the systems to maintain NATO’s deterrence posture. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said the move shows Europe’s unity in shielding Ukraine, while German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stressed that the Patriots will significantly enhance Kyiv’s protection.
Patriot systems—equipped with long-range radars and high-speed interceptors—are among the few capable of defeating tactical ballistic missiles. For Ukraine, additional Patriots mean stronger defenses not only for civilians but also for military infrastructure against Russia’s continued strikes.
The package also expands Ukraine’s multi-layered defense:
- Germany is financing Hensoldt TRML-4D radars to improve tracking and coordination across Ukraine’s air defense network.
- Norway is contributing to the delivery of Kongsberg’s Typhon-2 system, the newest short-range defense platform against drones, helicopters, and cruise missiles.
Officials highlighted that the combined systems—long-range Patriots, advanced radar coverage, and short-range defenses—form a comprehensive shield tailored to Ukraine’s evolving battlefield needs. Beyond technology, the initiative reflects Europe’s recognition that protecting Ukraine’s skies is vital for both Kyiv’s survival and regional stability.
