The Norwegian Armed Forces are set to increase their presence in the north, and the Long-Term Defence Plan (2025–2036) outlines major investments in personnel, equipment, and infrastructure in Northern Norway. The opportunities and societal impacts this may bring will depend on how effectively the Armed Forces utilize regional resources.
The report "Opptrapping av Forsvaret i Nord - Konsekvenser og muligheter i Nord-Norge med vekt på seks byer med omland" (“Military Buildup in the North – Consequences and Opportunities in Northern Norway with Emphasis on Six Cities and Surrounding Areas”), to be published in November, focuses on the six most populous municipalities in Northern Norway – Alta, Tromsø, Harstad, Narvik, Bodø, and Rana (the O6 municipalities) – and their surrounding regions. It explores various themes related to the Armed Forces’ presence in the north, including settlement, education, research and development, industrial opportunities, and transport infrastructure. The O6 municipalities serve as regional hubs, each with distinct economic profiles and resources that may be relevant to the Armed Forces.
The report was developed between July and October 2025. During this period, new information emerged regarding the Armed Forces’ priorities and location choices for certain functions, and the northern municipalities are now positioning themselves to seize the opportunities that follow.
The purpose of the report is to provide an overview of the opportunities the military buildup may offer to urban municipalities and their surrounding areas, and to identify actions that municipalities and businesses in the north can take to strengthen their position.
