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 said the number of armed forces personnel stationed in the Arctic nation would rise from around 1,000 to 2,000.
The commitment follows increasing concern among Nato allies about 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 said.
The defence secretary will join Nato counterparts at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels on Thursday to discuss the proposals.
By Anthony Solly
