The Ukrainian specialist training will take place in the Trøndelag area and is scheduled to start this spring. The training will be carried out in several rounds until 2023.

Norway has contributed to the training of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation Interflex in Great Britain. These efforts will continue in 2023, and with even more instructors. Norway is also providing financial and instructor support for EU training missions, and Norway is contributing to training Ukrainian explosives disposal officers.

– Good military know-how is necessary to wage an effective resistance struggle. That’s why this training is important for Ukrainians, and it is in addition to Home Guard-led training in Great Britain, said Major General Elisabeth Michelsen, head of the Home Guard.

Leader of the Home Guard

Home Guards are responsible for hiring and organizing training. HV has long experience in receiving and supporting foreign troops. Both regular employees and contract personnel from the Home Guard will take part in the mission, and other parts of the Armed Forces will contribute as needed.

The Ukrainian army will receive professional training in sanitary, sniper and team leader training.

– Ukraine needs more and better trained soldiers to fight against the Russian invading troops. In addition, they need to improve their competency in several professional areas. It is important for Norway to take part in this and contribute where we can, said Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.

Help package on the stairs

The minister said the government would continue to support Ukraine for as long as needed.

– We work continuously with several donations and contributions, both directly from Norway and through cooperation with several other countries. We are planning a bigger aid package for Ukraine that will last a few years, said Gram.