Norwegian Sea Drones to Help Protect Ukrainian Wheat Exports Through the Black Sea

 Maritime surface drones are being developed in a collaborative effort between the Norwegian and Ukrainian industries as part of a NOK 1.2 Billion support to Ukraine.

These drones will help protect the export of grain and other goods through the Black Sea which is vital for Ukraine’s economy and for international food security.

The Norwegian Government will provide NOK 1.2 billion under the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine for the development and procurement of maritime drones for Ukraine in 2026.

The funding will also include deliveries of uncrewed surface vessels from both the Norwegian and the Ukrainian industry, Norwegian MoD said Tuesday.

‘Norway is a global leader in the maritime sector. Ukraine uses maritime drones for reconnaissance and military offensives and to defend themselves against Russian attacks,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

On Tuesday, Mr Støre met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the Nordic-Baltic cooperation (NB8) Prime Ministers' summit in Tallinn, Estonia. Mr Zelensky attended the meeting as guest of honour.

Norwegian maritime expertise

Norway and the UK are leading the Maritime Capability Coalition in support of Ukraine. ‘Our cooperation with Ukraine helps to provide Norwegian personnel with useful insight and will enhance the Norwegian Navy's ability to phase in uncrewed vessels in line with the new Long-term Defence Plan. It is also an important means of enabling Ukraine to better protect civilian shipping,’ said Minister of Defence Tore O. Sandvik.

The Ukrainian maritime corridor in the Black Sea was established in September 2023. Since then, 200 million tonnes of cargo have been transported through the corridor, more than half of which has been grain. In recent months, the number of attacks on civilian vessels to and from Ukrainian ports has increased considerably.