Norway Reinforces Ukraine's Defense with Significant New Aid Package
Oslo, Norway – Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, a new military aid package for Ukraine valued at approximately NOK 3.2 billion (around $312-315 million USD or €267-269 million EUR). The comprehensive package is designed to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities, particularly against aerial threats, and includes crucial ammunition for F-16 fighter jets, advanced precision weapon systems, and S-300 surface-to-air missiles.
Prime Minister Støre made the announcement during his half-yearly press conference, emphasizing the urgency and importance of continued support for Ukraine. 'We expect swift delivery of this package, which Ukraine relies on to repel Russian attacks and continue its fight for freedom,' Støre stated.
Key Components of the Military Assistance
The newly announced aid package is strategically designed to address immediate and evolving needs on the Ukrainian battlefield. Its primary components include:
- F-16 Ammunition: Over NOK 1 billion (approximately $100 million USD) has been allocated specifically for ammunition for the F-16 fighter jets, which are critical for Ukraine's air superiority and defense.
- Advanced Precision Weapon Systems: Funding is also provided for a sophisticated system that converts lower-cost missiles into precision-guided munitions, capable of deployment from both aircraft and ground-based air defense units.
- S-300 Surface-to-Air Missiles: More than NOK 500 million (approximately $50 million USD) is earmarked for the procurement of S-300 surface-to-air missiles, which remain a vital part of Ukraine's air defense infrastructure.
- Long-Range Missiles: The package also includes provisions for long-range missiles to enhance Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities.
The JUMPSTART Mechanism for Rapid Delivery
This latest contribution is channeled through the JUMPSTART mechanism (Joint Ukraine Multinational Program - Services, Training, and Articles Rapid Timeline), an initiative based on the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. This mechanism enables Norway to procure complete military equipment and support services directly from the U.S. Department of Defense, ensuring rapid and efficient delivery to Ukraine.
Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik highlighted the strategic importance of this approach, stating that the equipment procured through JUMPSTART would be crucial in enhancing Ukraine's ability to defend itself against aerial threats. He added that the goal is to provide equipment that delivers immediate results on the battlefield while also building Ukraine's capabilities for the medium and longer term.
Norway's Enduring Commitment to Ukraine
The new package underscores Norway's steadfast and long-term commitment to supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This aid is part of the broader Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, which initially pledged NOK 75 billion in military and civilian aid from 2023 to 2027. The program has since been extended through 2030, with a minimum annual allocation of NOK 15 billion.
In 2025 alone, Norway has disbursed approximately NOK 9.943 billion through the JUMPSTART mechanism, including this latest allocation. Overall, Norway's total military aid to Ukraine for 2025 is projected to reach NOK 85 billion (approximately $4.58 billion USD). The Norwegian government's multi-year Plan for Norway consistently prioritizes national security and robust support for Ukraine.
6 Comments
Michelangelo
More taxpayer money sent overseas? What about our own problems here?
Leonardo
Focus on Norway's defense first! Our own military needs funding.
Raphael
Providing F-16 ammunition is a clear show of support, but we need to ensure this doesn't deplete our own national defense reserves too much.
Donatello
This commitment to Ukraine is commendable for international stability, but the sheer volume of funds makes me wonder about the impact on domestic social programs.
Michelangelo
Finally, more F-16 ammo! This will make a real difference on the front lines.
Raphael
NOK 3.2 billion is a massive sum. Is this even sustainable for Norway?