Norway to Expand Artillery Fleet with Significant Investment
Norway is set to enhance its military capabilities by nearly doubling its fleet of self-propelled artillery. In a move aimed at bolstering national defense, the Norwegian government has proposed the acquisition of 24 additional K9 Thunder howitzers from Hanwha Aerospace. This purchase, estimated at 5.65 billion Norwegian kroner ($534 million), is part of a broader defense budget aimed at strengthening the country’s military presence in the high north.
The new artillery pieces, which are 155 mm howitzers, are intended to equip a fresh artillery battalion. This unit will be integrated into the planned Finnmark brigade, a strategic initiative to reinforce Norway’s defenses. This proposal is included in a government proposal published recently, highlighting an overall defense spending plan of 17 billion kroner. This budget encompasses not only artillery but also enhanced sea mine-clearing capabilities and new military vehicles.
Currently, Norway possesses a fleet of 28 tracked K9 howitzers along with 14 K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. The government intends to exercise its contractual option with Hanwha to procure additional units. However, this plan requires approval from the Norwegian parliament, the Storting.
Minister of Defence Tore Sandvik emphasized the need for these investments. “We are in a serious security policy situation,” Sandvik stated, advocating for the Storting’s approval of these significant military investments in line with Norway’s long-term defense strategy.
Last October, the Norwegian government proposed a substantial increase in the country’s 2025 defense budget, raising it by 19.2 billion kroner to reach 110.1 billion kroner. The proposed budget for the additional howitzers includes not only the artillery but also necessary spare parts.
The new artillery units are expected to significantly bolster the Army’s firepower. According to the government, the total budget for the 155 mm artillery project stands at 11.1 billion kroner. Similar military enhancements are being pursued by other Baltic countries, including Poland, Finland, and Estonia.
In addition to the artillery expansion, the Norwegian government plans to invest 3.9 billion kroner to enhance maritime mine countermeasures, elevating the total budget for this initiative to 8.74 billion kroner. This project, initially approved in 2023, will include advanced unmanned and autonomous systems.
The government assessed the previously approved mine countermeasures as insufficient given the evolving security landscape. By expanding this project, Norway aims to ensure “freedom of movement in Norwegian waters even in a crisis or war,” according to official statements.
Minister Sandvik further explained, “This will help to ensure that our own vessels and allies can sail safely and freely in Norwegian waters. In addition, it can help to secure critical underwater infrastructure.”
