Norway hands over mine clearing equipment to Ukraine

24 August, 2023 Illustrative image of the demining process. Photo from open sources The Norwegian government approved the transfer of mine clearing equipment to Ukraine.

This is announced on the website of the Government of Norway. "Norway will continue to support Ukraine's defense struggle against Russia for as long as necessary. At the moment, Ukraine urgently needs more military and material support.

Ukraine has an urgent need for materials to break through the minefields. With this donation, Norway is making an important and necessary contribution to Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion," said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. The Norwegian government notes that Russian troops have set up large minefields to counter Ukrainian offensive forces.

Illustrative image of the demining process.

Photo from the open sources

Norway has assessed how it can help in the short term. The decision was made to transfer portable explosive ordnance disposal kits and engineer explosive items. The transferred equipment was withdrawn from the Norwegian Armed Forces and re-purchased.

The assistance program is funded by The Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine, which is designed for five years. The program budget is almost EUR7 billion. "Norway will continue to support Ukraine against the Russian invasion forces for as long as it takes.

We have previously provided requested military equipment, such as NASAMS air defense systems, artillery systems and ammunition, and tanks. Norway also makes a significant contribution to the training and education of Ukrainian personnel, both in Norway and abroad. It is important that we remain united in our support for Ukraine," the Prime Minister noted.

Illustrative image of the demining process.

Photo from open sources

Ukraine's defense industry is also developing its mine action capabilities and is ready to produce the latest mine clearance equipment. Militarnyi previously reported that the domestic manufacturers are ready to meet the production needs for the equipment to demine the territory of Ukraine from mines and unexploded ordnance. In addition, Pozhmashyna, a Ukrainian manufacturer of fire, rescue, and specialized equipment, created a heavy EOD vehicle.

As previously reported, the Norwegian government had approved the transfer of Iris-T missiles to Ukraine.