Norway with comprehensive tanks-package to Ukraine

-Almost one year has passed since Russia’s attack on Ukraine. It has been a horrible year with war, war crimes, destruction and murder to an extent that we have not seen since World War II. Because it is more crucial than ever to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom, we have decided to donate 8 tanks and up to 4 special purpose tanks to Ukraine. Several other allied countries have also decided to donate tanks, says Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

-The decision to donate Leopard 2-tanks and special purpose tanks has been made after close dialogue with both the Chief of Defence and other European countries. The war in Ukraine is nearing a critical phase and they are dependent upon timely and substantial support. We will also contribute with educating and training Ukrainian tanks-crew in Poland, along with other allied countries. This donation is an important and much needed contribution, says Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram.

On January 26th, Norway announced our commitment to contribute to the international donation of tanks to Ukraine. Norway will send tanks to Ukraine - regjeringen.no

- The government considers that this donation leaves Norway with a satisfactory national readiness. This is an assessment the Chief of Defence shares. We will also still be able to fulfill our commitments to NATO, says the Minister of Defence.

What type of special purpose tanks in the armored engineering and bridge layer category, will be considered from what Ukraine needs the most.  

-The tanks-package will also include the donation of ammunition and spare parts. In addition, Norway will also offer 250MNOK to the EU Ukraine-fund, European Peace Facility. The funds will be earmarked for ammunition and spare parts for the Leopard II. This will strengthen the effect of the Norwegian donation, says Gram. 

- Norwegian military support to Ukraine consists of donations from our own stock, contributions to international collaborative efforts, donations of equipment straight from the industry and the training of Ukrainian military personnel. At this point, we deem it absolutely necessary to donate from our own stock. It is vital for Norwegian and European security that the Russian aggression against Ukraine does not succeed, says the Minister of Defence.

-The goal of Norwegian military support for Ukraine is to enable the country to defend itself against Russian attacks and regain control and authority in their own territory. Ukraine has a dire, substantial and lasting need for international support. Norway has already contributed significantly and will continue to do so in the coming years, says Gram.

The Norwegian government has recently communicated to Parliament that a support-package for Ukraine for the next five years will be in the amount of 75 BNOK.