The Norwegian Armed Forces tests New Drone Technology in the North

"Technological development moves rapidly, and we continuously utilize experiences from the war in Ukraine to develop our own ability for modern warfare. For us, it is important to test new systems in a northern operational environment to ensure operational effect," says the head of the Norwegian Coastal Ranger Command, Commander Frode Nakken, to HNN.

Over the past week, the Coastal Ranger Command (KJK) has organized the annual innovation and development activity Viking Fåvne in Harstad, Northern Norway, together with the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment and the defense industry.

"We have tested new unmanned systems in the air, on and below the ocean surface, as well as on land. Some of the systems are used for surveillance and building situational awareness, while others are suited to attack and inflicting loss on an opponent," says Nakken, and continues:

"Among other things, we have experimented with a swarm of attack drones. Quantity can be a quality in itself, and if we can obtain a good number og such drones at a reasonable price, that is very interesting."

Streamlining

This is the fifth year in a row that Viking Fåvne has been organized, and Nakken emphasizes the importance of cooperation between the actors for progress in the innovation process.

"The connection between us as users, research communities and industry is very important. This allows us to shorten the time from the development of new technology to its actual use in operations. In today's security policy, it is crucial to increase the pace of development and introduction of new unmanned systems," says the head of KJK.

He is very satisfied with this year's round of testing.

"This week's testing has gone very well. We have gained valuable experience in what works and what does not, and we will continue working on the potential for improvement. In addition, we are following up Viking Fåvne with winter activities. Then we test new systems with a stronger exercise focus: we operate against an imagined enemy under demanding conditions in which the drones are affect by ice and strong winds."

Modernisation project

The experiences from Viking Fåvne are also important for the upgrade and modernization of the Coastal Ranger Command, adopted by parliament in 2024.

The combat unit that serves as the Norwegian Navy’s eyes and ears along the coast is to be strengthened with drones of various sizes, in addition to new high-speed boats and boarding boats, other smaller materiel, as well as new buildings and facilities.

The project involves investments of NOK 2.5 billion and is now in the implementation phase. This winter, it was announced that Norway and the United Kingdom are considering jointly procuring up to 30 new vessels for KJK and the Royal Marines for coastal operations.