UK and Norway sign historic deal to strengthen NATO's northern flank

The UK and Norway finalized a £10 billion agreement for Norway to acquire at least five Type 26 frigates, creating a combined fleet of 13 to counter Russian submarine threats in the North Sea, Baltic Sea, and High North. This bolsters NATO’s northern flank security.

The deal, signed by Defence Secretary John Healey and Norwegian counterpart Tore O. Sandvik in Stavanger, supports 4,000 UK jobs, including 2,000 in Scotland, and 432 businesses, with 222 small and medium enterprises. Prime Minister Starmer visited BAE Scotstoun to commend workers driving this economic boost.

Healey stated, “This deal will support thousands of UK jobs for many years to come and boosts our strategic partnership with Norway.” The agreement fosters joint naval training and personnel exchanges, enhancing deterrence against Russian aggression.

The partnership strengthens critical infrastructure protection and regional security, leveraging shared geography and history. Norwegian Navy recruits, met by Healey during the signing, will likely serve on these advanced frigates, reinforcing the UK-Norway naval collaboration.