On Monday, July 21, Norwayās Prime Minister Jonas Gahr StĆøre announced a major step in helping Ukraine defend itself from ongoing threats. Speaking at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Prime Minister StĆøre declared that Norway is ready to offer significant additional funding to improve Ukraineās air defense systems.
Norway Steps Up Support for Ukraineās Protection
The Prime Minister emphasized that this effort would not be carried out alone. Instead, Norway will work closely with Germany to ensure that the support reaches Ukraine quickly and efficiently. He referred to Germany as a āvery reliable partnerā in this mission.
During the live press conference, StĆøre explained that this funding would focus on strengthening Ukraineās ability to protect itself from aerial attacks, especially missile and drone threats. He noted that this funding is not just about moneyāit also involves partnerships between industries in both Norway and Germany to manufacture and deliver the necessary defense equipment.
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This announcement follows Norwayās earlier commitment, made in February 2025, when it pledged about $107 million to help Ukraine build stronger air defense capabilities. That funding is part of a larger $2 billion military aid package Norway is providing throughout 2025 under its Nansen Program. These efforts are designed to directly support Ukraineās ability to defend its skies and protect its people.
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During his address, Prime Minister StĆøre shared more details about what types of systems this funding would support. One of the key technologies discussed was the Patriot air defense system, which is known for its high accuracy in targeting and destroying incoming missiles.
He said, āWe are also discussing how we can supply systems like the Patriot systems to Ukraine, which is extremely important.ā However, he made it clear that for this to work, more international cooperation is necessary. Norway alone cannot provide the full range of equipment Ukraine needs.
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StĆøre pointed out that other countries, especially the United States, will need to contribute as well.Ā He noted that Norway is counting on the U.S. President, who has already shown interest in this support, to finalize agreements and deliver the systems quickly.
This cooperation includes the JUMPSTART program, through which Norway will procure air defense equipment from the United States. This program aims to deliver military equipment rapidly and forms a key part of Norwayās broader assistance efforts.
Germany and U.S. Already Working on Patriot System Deliveries
While Norway is expanding its efforts, Germany and the United States have also made moves to support Ukraineās air defense. According to previous statements from German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Germany and the U.S. have already agreed to supply five Patriot systems to Ukraine.
These systems are seen as essential in defending Ukrainian cities, infrastructure, and military bases from air attacks. Each Patriot system includes radar units, control stations, and launchers capable of firing advanced missiles that can track and destroy enemy projectiles mid-air.
Industries in Norway and Germany are already collaborating to manufacture these systems and their components. Prime Minister StĆøre highlighted that these industries are not working in isolation. Instead, they are combining efforts to meet urgent defense needs through shared production and innovation.
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This joint approach could speed up delivery times and ensure that Ukraine receives the systems it needs more quickly. It also allows countries like Norway to contribute to the defense effort without having to build everything from scratch.
This is not the first time Norway has stepped up its support. Over the past year, Norway has provided both financial aid and military equipment to Ukraine. But this latest move signals a deeper level of commitment, one that involves partnerships with multiple countries and a clear focus on improving Ukraineās defenses against ongoing threats.