Norway Launches Major Modernization of Its Surveillance System on the Russian Border

Norway has launched a large-scale modernization of its border surveillance system along the border with Russia. The initiative is being carried out by the Police Directorate and the Defense Staff in cooperation with the Finnmark Police District, the Border Commissioner, the Finnmark Brigade, and the Garrison’s Jäger Battalion in Sør-Varanger.

At the end of 2024, Norway received approximately $17 million from the EU’s Border Management and Visa Instrument to strengthen border security, Police Directorate reported on November 4. The funding will go toward upgrading surveillance systems along the Norwegian-Russian border, enhancing both national and regional security.

“The security situation in Europe means that Norway is taking a number of steps to strengthen border surveillance. The police and the armed forces will build on their already strong cooperation through closer coordination and further development of the border mission,” said Lieutenant Colonel Rune Rippon from the Defense Staff.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Ukraine’s Drone Revolution Is Forcing Europe to Rethink the Economics of War

Oct 30, 2025 11:04

To oversee the implementation, an interagency steering group has been established, led by the Police Directorate and including representatives from the Defense Staff, the Finnmark Police District, and the Police Immigration Unit.

During its first meeting, the group visited Skafferhullet, a former border crossing in Sør-Varanger municipality. The site will be the first step in the broader effort to modernize northern border surveillance.

“The experience gained from this project will be important for both the police and the armed forces. Through this modernization, we will be able to test new masts and alternative sensors for detection and observation. The use of drones will also be relevant along certain parts of the border. This is a key step in further strengthening border monitoring with Russia,” said Finnmark Police Chief Ellen Katrine Hætta.

Earlier, two Norwegian F-35 fighter jets were deployed to intercept a Russian Il-20 reconnaissance plane operating over the Barents Sea.

Support our frontline reporters

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW