Ukraine proposes Norway access to its drone war secrets

Ukraine and Norway have synchronized their defense cooperation ahead of the next “Ramstein” meeting, focusing on air defense, drones, and technology, according to the Defense Ministry. 

The sides agreed on key areas of cooperation ahead of the upcoming Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on 15 April.

Kyiv plans to propose a mutually beneficial cooperation model under which allies gain access to combat data and Ukrainian-made systems at the event. This includes, in particular, experience in building a comprehensive system for countering Shahed-type drones.

Main field of Ukraine–Norway cooperation 

During a conversation between Ukraine’s Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Norwegian Defense Minister Tore Sandvik, the two defined near-term priorities.

These include strengthening air defense, developing unmanned systems, and supporting innovative defense projects.

Basic backbone of brigade-level support

The discussion also covered a project to equip brigades with drones as a core element of combat effectiveness. Ukraine continues to scale up initiatives such as PURL, support for the “Czech initiative,” and the development of “small air defense” using interceptor drones.

Through PURL, Ukraine receives American Patriot PAC-3 missiles for the Patriot missile system, which are capable of intercepting Russian ballistic missiles carrying up to 500 kg of explosives.

The Czech initiative has, for several years, been supplying critical ammunition to the front.

Technological advantage shifts balance of war faster

The Ukrainian side reported results from recent months: improved airspace protection, higher target engagement effectiveness, and the most successful March for the “Army of Drones.Bonus” program.

“Air defense deliveries and other solutions allowed us to get through a difficult winter, protect critical infrastructure, and stabilize the energy system,” the Ministry of Defense said.

The Ukrainian Defense Minister thanked his Norwegian counterpart for systematic support and invited him to visit Ukraine, including the opportunity to observe “small air defense” systems and UAV operations. Ukraine is ready to share this experience with Norway to build a mutually beneficial partnership.