Norway announced on Monday that it will provide 2.7 billion crowns ($242 million) to bolster Ukraine’s navy, aiming to enhance its ability to deter Russian naval forces in the Black Sea.
The funding will support innovation and autonomy in line with the goals of the Maritime Capability Coalition, launched by Norway and the United Kingdom last year to integrate Ukraine’s navy with Western allies.
“It is essential to protect the Ukrainian population and Ukrainian infrastructure from attacks by Russia’s Black Sea Fleet,” said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere in a statement. “It is also important to protect exports by sea of grain and other products, which generate crucial revenues for Ukraine.”
The Norwegian contribution will include donations from its armed forces, as well as procurement of additional military equipment from industry to be donated to Ukraine. The funds will also focus on mine clearance operations and training Ukrainian soldiers in maritime defense.
“The systems we are providing will enhance the ability of Ukrainian forces to detect and defuse mines along their coastline,” said Norwegian Defence Minister Bjoern Arild Gram.
The aid underscores Norway’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s naval capabilities amid escalating tensions in the Black Sea. Russian naval operations in the region have targeted both Ukrainian infrastructure and vital grain exports, which are a cornerstone of Ukraine’s economy.
The Maritime Capability Coalition, initiated by Norway and the UK, aims to modernize Ukraine’s naval operations, fostering compatibility with NATO standards and promoting innovative solutions in maritime defense. Much of the funding will focus on autonomous systems and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring Ukraine can address both current and emerging threats in the Black Sea.