Military Increases Readiness Level

The Norwegian military has stepped up its alert level in response to the ongoing war in Ukraine, reports the Guardian (U.K.).

The higher level means that additional personnel have been put on operational duty and the Home Guard was put on a more active footing.

Norway is also expediting the fielding of new P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and reducing training in favor of increased operational duties.

While Norwegian officials said they did not believe Russia planned to attack, greater tensions increase Norway’s exposure to threats, intelligence operations and influence campaigns.

The Norwegian air force also called off planned training in the U.S. with its F-35s, preferring to keep the jets at home.

The heightened alert level was expected to last for a year, said Gen. Eirik Kristoffersen, the chief of defense staff.

Last week, Norwegian authorities arrested a Russian intelligence officer accused of espionage, who had posed as a Brazilian academic.