AmCham Defense Forum: The Evolving Security Landscape and Norwegian Military Development
In collaboration with the US Commercial Service, AmCham’s first Defense Forum of the year was hosted by Brækhus at their downtown Oslo offices. The session featured two distinguished speakers: Retired General Sverre Diesen, lead researcher at Forsvarets forskningsinstitutt (FFI) and former Chief of Defense, and General Eirik Kristoffersen, Norway’s Chief of Defense. Together, they provided invaluable insights into the current and future security challenges facing Norway and its allies.
Sverre Diesen opened the forum with a comprehensive analysis of the global security environment following the US Presidential Election and the enduring role of the United States as an indispensable nation. General Diesen examined the critical implications for Europe and Norway, emphasizing that while the nature of US support might evolve, Norway’s dependence on US support will remain steadfast, regardless of the probability or nature of that support. He also highlighted the importance of proactive strategic planning to navigate a more complex and unpredictable security landscape.
Retired General Sverre Diesen, lead researcher at Forsvarets forskningsinstitutt (FFI) and former Chief of Defense,
General Eirik Kristoffersen focused on the future development of Norway’s Armed Forces. He outlined how Norway’s Defense Pledge – with a budget exceeding NOK 1 600 billion through 2036 – will drive significant advancements in national defense capabilities. Norway is aiming to allocate 3% of GDP to defense by 2030, including contributions through the Nansen Program. Kristoffersen underscored three key priorities for Norway and its allies moving forward: standardization, mobilization, and interoperability. Drawing from lessons learned in Ukraine, he emphasized the importance of streamlined procurement processes, flexibility, and collaboration with private industry to ensure innovation and scalability in times of crisis.
General Kristoffersen also challenged the defense industry to play a more dynamic role in supporting Norway and NATO’s strategic goals by delivering affordable, innovative, and rapidly deployable solutions to meet emerging threats. He highlighted that public-private collaboration will be essential to ensure Norway remains equipped to address evolving security challenges alongside its allies.
About the AmCham Defense Forum
In partnership with the US Commercial Service, the Defense Forum supports US defense industry partners in Norway. Key Patron-level and defense industry representatives gather quarterly to forge enhanced public-private sector collaboration – sharing insights, developments, and trends to secure long-term transatlantic bonds.
Please contact amcham@amcham.no for interest in future meetings.
General Eirik Kristoffersen, Norway’s Chief of Defense
