Britain to double forces in Norway over three years

The escalation will take place over a three-year period and is being done in response to increased threats from Russia, said British Defence Minister John Healey in a statement.

“We see that President Vladimir Putin is rapidly re-establishing his military presence in the region, including by reopening old bases from the Cold War,” he said.

The announcement comes at the same time as Britain takes over leadership of NATO Command Norfolk, which is responsible for the northern parts of the military alliance.

British forces will also play a central role in the NATO force Arctic Sentry, which will increase security in the Arctic.

Norway and the UK also signed a new defence agreement in December.