Norway and Germany sign agreement on space cooperation

During a visit to Haakonsvern on 2 December, Norwegian Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius signed a letter of intent aimed at strengthening space cooperation and the partnership between Norway and Germany.

‘Space-based services and capabilities are essential for effective military operations going forward. Leveraging space-based capabilities will be crucial for Norway’s ability to sustain situational awareness in the High North,’ said Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.

He emphasised that the tense security environment and the increasing threat to space-based systems underscore the need to further strengthen defence cooperation with Norway’s allies in this domain.

‘The signing of the letter of intent between Norway and Germany lays the foundation for collaboration across several areas, including space operations, defence industrial initiatives, and satellite launches from Andøya Spaceport,’ the Defence Minister added.

In the new Long-Term Plan on Defence, the Norwegian government is prioritising the development of military space operations capabilities and the establishment of additional satellite systems.

‘Norway is a significant space nation, but collaboration with allies is vital for further development, creating synergies, and sharing costs. This will bolster Norway’s position as a key player in space, while enhancing security and stability,’ Gram concluded.