U.K. and Norway agree to collaborate in tracking Russian submarines in North Atlantic

The United Kingdom and Norway have established a new defense partnership aimed at locating Russian submarines and securing communication routes across the North Atlantic, the British government announced on Thursday.

Under this agreement, the two nations' navies will operate jointly, forming a shared fleet of anti-submarine vessels. The initiative follows a reported 30% rise in Russian naval activity near U.K. waters over the past two years. The fleet will consist of eight ships from the U.K. and at least five from Norway.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that increased cooperation is crucial amid rising global tensions and the growing presence of Russian ships in the region. He stated that the pact will reinforce border protection and safeguard essential infrastructure relied upon by both nations.

U.K. Defence Secretary John Healey said the Lunna House Agreement will allow both countries to patrol the North Atlantic as a unified force, participate in Arctic training, and work together on new technology designed to ensure long-term security. Healey and Norwegian Defence Minister Tore Sandvik signed the agreement in London on Thursday.

The joint naval effort will focus on the maritime zone between Greenland, Iceland, and the U.K., monitoring potential Russian movements. In addition to patrol duties, the fleet will protect underwater cables and pipelines that support international data transmission and energy supply networks.

Norway's defense ministry noted that the pact promotes deeper integration between both nations' forces, including collaboration on frigates and shared development of drone systems in northern regions. The agreement also expands the role of British forces in Norway, providing additional training opportunities for Royal Marines and increasing their presence in the country.

According to the U.K. government, the navies will function as a single operational unit, sharing facilities, equipment, and technology to enable rapid deployment. The announcement came as British air crews tracked several Russian vessels near U.K. waters, including the spy ship Yantar detected recently north of Scotland.

Prime Minister Starmer met with Norwegian leader Jonas Stre in northern Scotland on Thursday, where he stressed the importance of remaining alert to ongoing security risks posed by Russia.

Author: Jackson Miller