Norway announced plans to increase defense spending to $16.5 billion

Norway plans to spend about $16.5 billion on defense spending in 2025, which is 3.3% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), the Norwegian Ministry of Defense announced on May 15.

"According to the draft revised national budget put forward by the government, Norway will spend approximately 172 billion kronor (about $16.5 billion) on defense spending this year. This means that Norway will spend 3.3% of GDP," RIA Novosti quoted the agency as saying.

As Defense Minister Tore Sandvik noted, the Norwegian government wants to ensure the proper level of activity of the armed forces, as well as to ensure that they carry out their planned operations. In addition, the increase in defense spending should offset the cost of more expensive military equipment and services.

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On March 25, Sandvik said that the EU countries are obliged to take on more responsibility in the field of defense in order to preserve US aid. He noted that for those who fear that the United States will refuse to provide assistance when necessary, there is only one answer: "increased responsibility for your own safety."

Earlier, on March 1, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense confirmed the continuation of cooperation with the US Navy. The press service also said that the United States will continue to receive the necessary supplies and support from Norway.