Norway shares key warfare lessons learned from Ukraine
NATO member Norway reveals critical insights from Ukraine's war with Russia to modernize its defense strategy.
1Avoiding the static warfare trap
Norwegian officers emphasize that Ukraine's static war of attrition with Russia would be devastating for smaller nations. With a population of 5 million, Norway couldn't sustain monthly losses of 35,000 troops. NATO's June 2024 Future Force Study highlights maintaining maneuverability even under heavy surveillance as a key lesson from the conflict.
2Tech investments for mobile warfare
The Norwegian military is studying Ukraine's world-class air defense systems. Training at Camp Jomsborg prioritizes electronic warfare and counter-drone technologies. Brigadier Atle Molde stresses comprehensive preparation - from training individual soldiers to shoot down drones with shotguns to nationwide mobilization readiness.
3Ukraine's resistance with limited resources
Ukraine's military, initially equipped with outdated Soviet systems, repelled Russia's attempt to capture Kyiv. Despite Western artillery, tank and jet support, battlefield gains are measured in hundreds of meters. While Ukraine's defense industry has boomed, deep fortifications and drone swarms continue limiting mobility along the frontline 'kill zones'.
4NATO's lessons from Ukraine
Norwegian PM Jonas Gahr Støre announced in April 2024 that frontline experiences are being integrated into Norway's defense systems. Ukraine's mass production of low-cost drones (millions annually) is reshaping NATO's offensive and defensive doctrines. Operation Legio, led by Norway, brings together trainers from over 30 nations to share battlefield insights.
5The air superiority advantage
NATO members' key advantage over Ukraine lies in their ability to establish air dominance. Experts note this could enable more successful ground operations. However, deep defensive lines and 'kill zones' on the Ukrainian front make large-scale maneuvers extremely difficult for both sides, as seen in the current static warfare conditions.
6The need for societal mobilization
Norwegian commanders admit no Western nation is prepared for a years-long existential war like Ukraine's. Molde emphasizes that whole-society preparedness is essential, despite NATO's collective defense guarantee. With Ukraine suffering thousands of casualties, Norway (population 5M) focuses on avoiding similar attritional warfare through technological edge and mobility.
7Ukraine's technological leap
Initially lacking high-tech weapons, Ukraine made major advances in domestic defense production. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense data shows annual drone production reaching millions. Norwegian trainers daily incorporate Ukraine's innovations in electronic warfare and counter-drone systems into their own military doctrines and training programs.
8The future warfare paradigm
Ukraine's experience demonstrates modern wars will be defined by drone swarms and electronic warfare rather than traditional tank battles. NATO members are investing in mobile combat concepts to avoid Ukraine's static warfare trap. Norway's example proves even small nations can maintain deterrence through technology-focused defense strategies and mobility preservation.
Original article: Business Insider — Norveç, Ukrayna'dan öğrendiği savaş derslerini paylaştı