The UK will deploy units to the Arctic to counter Russian submarine activity and protect critical undersea infrastructure. The move follows the implementation of the Lunna House Agreement, a major defense pact signed by the UK and Norway in December 2025, according to Newsweek.
Under the new agreement, the UK’s Commando Force, operating under the Royal Marines, will be based in Norway year-round. Previously, British units were deployed only during the winter months, mainly for Arctic training exercises.
Responding to Russia's Arctic militarization
The Lunna House pact envisions the creation of a joint, interchangeable fleet of anti-submarine frigates in the North Atlantic.
This is a direct response to Russia’s long-term military buildup in the Arctic and the deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing in the region.
A clear signal to Moscow
The expanded British presence sends a clear message of commitment to defending Norway, a close NATO ally. The Royal Marines will remain forward-deployed and combat-ready in one of the planet’s most hostile environments, the Norwegian Arctic.
In October 2024, NATO Military Committee Chairman Admiral Rob Bauer warned about Russia’s continued military buildup in the region.
“NATO will defend its interests in the Arctic. And we want to uphold the international rules-based order, which includes freedom of navigation,” the admiral said.
The deployment of additional British forces is just the first phase of the Lunna House Agreement. The UK and Norway plan to invest in undersea warfare systems, autonomous mine-hunting platforms, and the protection of critical infrastructure.
