Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Megan Salina
A new and semi-official European coalition is quietly taking shape, largely unnoticed by the global media. In response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a political and military alliance among five European nations—Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland—has been steadily organizing. Officially known as the Nordic Defense Cooperation (NORDEFCO), this quintuplet is ramping up its defenses, integrating forces, and enhancing interoperability to safeguard their collective security.
While NORDEFCO operates as a subset of NATO, the five nations involved are working closely at the political and military levels outside of NATO’s official command structure. Although the organization was established in 2009, recent developments in Eastern Europe have heightened the need for greater cooperation. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has served as a catalyst for NORDEFCO, prompting its members to further solidify their alliance. In April 2024, the group convened to strengthen their collaboration under a strategic plan known as “Vision 2030.”
Vision 2030: Strengthening Nordic Defense Cooperation
Vision 2030 outlines eight key areas where NORDEFCO aims to bolster defense cooperation:
- Strategic dialogue and consultations on current security issues.
- Multinational combined operations: Enhancing the ability to conduct and command joint military actions.
- Host nation and logistical support: Ensuring seamless joint operations across borders.
- Military mobility: Improving the movement of forces within and between Nordic countries.
- Strategic and operational capabilities: Aligning defense capabilities with operational requirements.
- Defense materiel cooperation: Increasing the interchangeability of military equipment and resources.
- Security of military supplies: Strengthening resilience through secure supply chains.
- Total defense strategy: Ensuring comprehensive support for the defense sector from all societal levels in any crisis.
Sweden: The Industrial Powerhouse of NORDEFCO
Sweden’s recent addition to NATO has significantly bolstered both NATO and NORDEFCO, particularly in terms of industrial strength. Sweden’s robust industrial sector accounts for 20% of its GDP, equivalent to $117 billion, with advanced manufacturing contributing $40 billion to this total. Sweden is a leader in additive manufacturing and produces a third of the world’s metal powder used in 3D printing. With significant capabilities in steel, automotive, chemical production, and industrial machinery, Sweden’s industrial base is a critical asset for the alliance.
Sweden’s military is equally formidable, with an army of 25,600 active-duty soldiers, 11,800 reservists, and 22,200 Home Guard members. Its navy operates 387 vessels, while the air force boasts 425 combat aircraft across 28 squadrons. Sweden also hosts a forward air base for U.S. B-1B bombers at Luleå-Kallax Air Base, further strengthening its strategic position.
Norway: A Wealth of Resources and Strategic Investments
Norway brings significant economic strength and resources to NORDEFCO, boasting one of the highest standards of living in the world. Its large reserves of oil and minerals ensure a steady supply of fuel for the alliance in the event of conflict. Norway’s rich fishing grounds also contribute to its economy, with exports valued at NOK 28 billion ($2.65 billion USD).
Militarily, Norway is enhancing its capabilities, with 102 aircraft and 25 naval vessels, including frigates and patrol boats. Its army, while small with 9,350 soldiers, is backed by 40,500 reservists and an ambitious naval buildup. Norway is investing in five new blue-water frigates and four additional Type 212CD submarines, developed in collaboration with Germany. Norway’s $1.6 trillion sovereign wealth fund also provides a financial cushion for its defense strategy.
Finland: A Key Player on the Frontline
Among the NORDEFCO members, Finland is the most exposed, with a 1,340 km (830-mile) border to the east. Finland has a complex history with its eastern neighbor and has faced various territorial and security challenges over the centuries. Today, Finland is determined to defend its sovereignty, having joined NATO in April 2023.
Finland’s military is highly capable, with 18,400 conscripts and an equal number of reservists on active duty. The country’s air force operates 139 aircraft, while its navy maintains 246 ships. With 900,000 trained reservists, Finland is well-prepared to respond to any security threats.
Denmark: A Strategic Bridge Between Continents
Denmark, though geographically located on the Jutland Peninsula, is closely tied to its Nordic neighbors. With a population of nearly 6 million and a GDP of $400 billion, Denmark plays a crucial role in NORDEFCO. Its army includes 25,400 active-duty personnel and a reserve force of 63,000. Denmark’s air force operates 120 aircraft, and its navy has 61 ships.
Denmark’s strategic position is further enhanced by its sovereignty over Greenland, which occupies a key location in the North Atlantic. Along with Iceland, Greenland forms a critical choke point, potentially controlling naval access from the Arctic Ocean into the North Atlantic.
Iceland: A Strategic Outpost
Iceland, with a population of 382,000 and a GDP of $28 billion, plays a vital strategic role despite having no standing military. The island nation’s location in the North Atlantic is crucial for controlling maritime access, making it an essential part of NORDEFCO’s strategic calculations. Iceland maintains a defense treaty with the United States, further solidifying its role in regional security.
Should NORDEFCO Expand to Include Poland?
While NORDEFCO’s combined assets are impressive, the alliance faces a challenge: a lack of manpower to deter significant threats. Poland, with its population of 36.82 million and a GDP of $668 billion, could provide a solution. Poland’s military strength, with plans to increase its personnel to 300,000 and significant naval investments, would complement NORDEFCO’s capabilities.
Historically, relations between Poland and the Nordic countries have been complex, but the current security landscape calls for pragmatism. Integrating Poland into NORDEFCO could create a more robust defense bloc, enhancing the security of all members and presenting a stronger deterrent to any potential threats.
In conclusion, NORDEFCO represents a significant step forward in European defense cooperation. As the alliance continues to grow and adapt to new challenges, its success may well depend on further expansion and deepened collaboration. By strengthening ties with Poland, NORDEFCO could become an even more formidable force, capable of safeguarding the security and stability of Northern Europe.
