We live in a global era. Social, cultural and economic structures are undergoing changes as a result of globalization. Security and the nature of the threats we face are also globalized. Geographical boundaries have traditionally provided national protection and security. This is no longer the case. We now face threats that are trans-national, complex and unpredictable. We need strong partnerships and alliances more than ever. A strong transatlantic relationship is a prerequisite for dealing with challenges to our common security. One of Norway’s main objectives is to contribute to crisis prevention and crisis response operations in concert with our Allies and partners.

Norway is working actively within the frameworks of the UN, NATO and the EU to achieve these goals with military as well as diplomatic means. The military dialogue between the Nordic countries has also been strengthened recently to promote cooperation, acquire, and maintain military capacities, which will be too expensive to maintain for each country alone.

Strategic cooperation between the armed forces, the R&D communities and industry is crucial to accommodating defense needs related to coalition warfare. The Norwegian Government wants to establish a long term strategy to ensure that defense acquisitions, operations, and maintenance can be sourced from the defense industry based on quality standards and fair competition. The Government will also strive to select national and international collaborative partners at the early stages of selected projects whenever this can support the needs of the Armed Forces.

The Defense Technology Forum in Washington DC offers an excellent arena for interaction between these strategic partners. I encourage the defense industry, the R&D community, the military leadership and defense officials to take advantage of this opportunity to build and maintain mutually beneficial networks!