France and Norway Commit to Jet Fighter Deliveries for Ukraine
France and Norway have reaffirmed their commitment to supplying jet fighters to Ukraine, as both nations made a joint announcement in Oslo on Thursday. Norway has pledged to deliver six US-made F-16 fighter jets to assist Ukraine in its ongoing battle against the Russian invasion, with the transfer scheduled to take place between 2024 and 2025. Meanwhile, France revealed plans to provide an undisclosed number of its Mirage 2000-5 fighters, with deliveries expected to commence in the first quarter of 2025.
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu emphasized that the timeline for these deliveries is being strictly adhered to. While he did not elaborate on reports suggesting the delivery of three aircraft by January 20, he stated, “What has been promised will be delivered.” Norway’s Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram also assured that the initial batch of F-16s has been dispatched, but he withheld specific operational details, confirming simply, “We are on schedule.”
Strengthening Military Cooperation Amidst Hybrid Threats
In a move to bolster their military ties, the two ministers signed a letter of intent focused on enhancing cooperation in protecting underwater infrastructure, especially in light of the evolving hybrid warfare threats posed by Russia. This agreement underscores the importance both nations place on safeguarding critical maritime assets.
As part of their defense collaboration, the French navy has placed an order with Norway’s Kongsberg Maritime for the Hugin seabed exploration vehicle, a sophisticated unit capable of diving to depths of 6,000 meters (20,000 feet). Furthermore, France is competing with the United States, Britain, and Germany to sell five defense and intervention frigates to Norway, with Minister Gram indicating that Oslo’s decision on this matter will be announced later this year.
