Norwegian Ministry of Defence Rejects Calls to Remove KNM Bergen Wreckage

Ministry Cites Socio-Economic Factors and Operational Needs

The Norwegian Ministry of Defence has formally rejected demands from several fishing organizations to remove the wreckage of the decommissioned frigate KNM Bergen. The vessel was deliberately sunk in September 2025 during a weapons test in the Svensgrunnen fishing ground, located off Andøya in Northern Norway, near Gryllefjord. The Ministry stated that it 'would not be socio-economically justifiable to raise or relocate the wreckage'.

The decision comes after calls from groups including the national vessel owners' association Fiskebåt, the Pelagisk Forening (Pelagic Fishermen's Association), and Nord Fiskarlag. These organizations expressed concerns about the wreckage interfering with fishing operations and potentially causing damage to fishing equipment.

Details of the Sinking and Location

The KNM Bergen was sunk as part of the NATO exercise Ægir. The frigate was targeted by the new precision weapon Quicksink, which was dropped by an American B-2 bomber. The wreckage now rests at an approximate depth of 125 meters.

According to a letter signed by the Ministry's Director General, Henning Vaglum, and Colonel Pål Svarstad, the location for the weapons test was carefully selected. The Armed Forces required the frigate to be securely anchored and completely stationary, necessitating an exercise area no deeper than 125 meters. The Ministry emphasized that the chosen site lies on the outer edge of the Svensgrunnen fishing ground, representing a 'compromise between necessary operational needs and civilian interests'.

Environmental and Safety Assurances

The Ministry of Defence has provided assurances regarding the safety and environmental impact of the sunken frigate. Officials stated that the weapon used in the test split the vessel into two sections, both of which are anchored to the seabed. They added that 'there should be no danger of wreckage being scattered over a wider area' and confirmed plans to verify the precise position and condition of the wreck to provide updated information to fishermen.

Prior to its use as a target ship, the KNM Bergen, along with another frigate, KNM Trondheim (also sunk during the exercise), was fully cleared of hazardous materials and environmentally certified. While the Ministry indicated that advice was sought from the County Governor and the Directorate of Fisheries to find the least burdensome solution, the Directorate of Fisheries later clarified that they only received a request for a contact person and did not provide further advice on the matter.