The Nordic countries are continuing to deepen defence cooperation in response to a rapidly changing security environment in Northern Europe and the Arctic.

During a meeting held in Trøndelag, Norway, on 5–6 May, the Nordic Ministers of Defence discussed how Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden can further strengthen cooperation within the framework of NATO and the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO).

The ministers emphasized that closer Nordic cooperation has become increasingly important following Finland’s and Sweden’s accession to NATO, which has created new opportunities for joint planning, operations and regional coordination.

Focus on Mobility, Air Cooperation and Technology

According to the joint statement released after the meeting, the Nordic countries will place particular emphasis on:

• improving the movement of military forces across Nordic borders,
• strengthening cooperation in the air domain,
• and developing capabilities related to drones and counter-drone systems.

The ministers also visited Ørland Air Base and SINTEF Ocean in Norway, where innovation and technology development in defence and maritime sectors were highlighted.

Nordic Region Increasingly Integrated

The joint statement described Nordic defence cooperation as entering a new phase, with all five Nordic countries now united within the same military alliance.

“With all five countries united in the same alliance, new opportunities have opened to further strengthen our defence cooperation,” the ministers stated.

The ministers emphasized that closer Nordic cooperation contributes not only to regional stability but also strengthens NATO’s overall posture in Northern Europe.

NORDEFCO Cooperation Expanding

NORDEFCO, established in 2009, serves as the main framework for Nordic defence cooperation between Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Cooperation includes joint exercises, operational planning, capability development and crisis preparedness.

Recent years have seen increased focus on Arctic security, military mobility and regional resilience, alongside expanded cooperation between Nordic armed forces.

Norway currently holds the 2026 chairship of NORDEFCO.

Source: Stjórnarráð Íslands