UK Enhances Arctic Defense with Increased Troop Deployment in Norway

Wed Feb 11 2026 18:12:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In response to rising tensions and Russian military activities, the UK government announces plans to double its military presence in Norway to bolster security in the Arctic region.

As part of an effort to combat perceived threats from Russia in the Arctic, the UK will increase its troop numbers in Norway from 1,000 to 2,000. This move is anticipated to enhance NATO's collective security strategy in response to Russia's growing military presence and activities in the region, reminiscent of Cold War dynamics.

The number of British troops in Norway will double over the next three years as part of efforts to combat Russian threats in the High North.

Defence Secretary John Healey announced that the number of armed forces personnel stationed in the Arctic nation would rise from around 1,000 to 2,000.

This commitment follows increasing concern among NATO allies regarding Russia's activities in the Arctic, including the reopening of old Cold War bases and a growing military presence in the region.

Demands on defence are rising and Russia poses the greatest threat to Arctic and High North security that we have seen since the Cold War, Healey emphasized.

The Defence Secretary will join NATO counterparts at the alliance's headquarters in Brussels to discuss the proposals.

As part of the expanded presence, 1,500 Royal Marine Commandos will take part in NATO's Exercise Cold Response in March, designed to train allied forces in extreme Arctic conditions.

There are also plans for a joint exercise, named Lion Protector, aimed at enhancing security against potential attacks on critical infrastructure across Norway, Iceland, and the Danish straits.

The UK has increasingly expressed concerns over the risk posed by Russia, especially concerning underwater cables and pipelines, following heightened tensions after the invasion of Ukraine. Reports indicate a 30% increase in Russian submarine activity in UK waters over the past two years.