Towards Stronger Nordic Defence Cooperation

By the Danish Defence Command

New times call for new solutions. By signing the Nordic Defence Concept, the Nordic Chiefs of Defence emphasize their shared commitment to a robust military defence of the Nordic region.

The primary task is to ensure credible deterrence against hostile actions directed at the Nordic countries and to and ensure that the countries can continue to defend Nordic territory in the future.

A Stronger Nordic Contribution to NATO

The accession of Sweden and Finland to the NATO alliance has paved the way for deeper integration of the Nordic countries’ defence plans.

The Nordic Defence Concept aims to harmonize the countries' individual but overlapping plans and to enable a seamless transition to NATO’s regional plans in times of crisis and war. In such situations, the focus will shift to facilitating reinforcements for NATO allies while maintaining the defence of the Nordic region.

A Shared Vision

Through the Nordic Defence Concept, the Nordic Chiefs of Defence align with the military development outlined in the political Vision 2030 for Nordic defence cooperation.

The vision, signed by the Nordic Ministers of Defence in April 2024, sets the framework for an ambitious enhancement of defence cooperation across a wide range of areas.

In addition to synchronizing defence plans, Nordic defence cooperation includes more joint military exercises and educational activities, joint capacity building, the development of shared communication and military infrastructure, as well as increased joint operations and surveillance activities.

Closer Nordic cooperation benefits not only NATO but also defence cooperation within the EU and the British-led Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF).

The work undertaken to implement the Nordic Defence Concept is a central priority under the Danish NORDEFCO chairmanship in 2024.

Read the joint statement by Nordic Chiefs of Defence about the Nordic Defence Concept.