Norway plans to expand the number of young people completing first-time military service at KNM Harald Haarfagre from around 5,200 this year to 6,100 annually. But the Madla recruit camp in Stavanger has already reached capacity and cannot accommodate additional recruits. Camp commander Egil Vasstrand says expansion is impossible until infrastructure catches up. Madla faces […]

The Norwegian Armed Forces have recorded a noticeable decline in public reputation, according to the 2026 Traction Offentlig survey conducted by Apeland in cooperation with Altinget and Norstat. Forsvaret scored 75 points, down from a record 80 points in 2025, moving from the category of “very good” to simply “good” reputation. Survey organizers say that […]

Norway’s military representative says the government’s “historic” defence buildup is not reflected in conscripts’ everyday experience. While billions are being invested in submarines, frigates and fighter aircraft, soldiers are reportedly being called up before sufficient beds, weapons and supervisors are available—and receive less training than they need. Representative Julie Buaas Male warns that the gap […]

Norway’s military representative scheme, which speaks for approximately 10,000 conscripts, says soldiers want more extensive weapons, field and role-specific training throughout their service. Some personnel, particularly those in support roles, report barely visiting a shooting range or conducting field exercises after basic training. National representative Erik Gullikstad argues that every conscript position should be clearly […]