Joint Viking 2025. The largest military exercise in Norway
From March 3 to 14, 2025, the largest military exercise of the year – Joint Viking 2025 – will take place in northern Norway. Approximately 10,000 soldiers from seven countries will participate: Norway, Canada, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The main goal of the exercise is to enhance Norway's defensive capabilities in close cooperation with NATO allies in harsh winter conditions.
In brief
The Joint Viking 2025 military exercise will take place from 3 to 14 March 2025 in northern Norway. Around 10 thousand troops from seven countries will take part: Norway, Canada, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States. The main land, sea and air activities will be conducted in Troms county, and operational activity will also cover waters around the Tarva range west of Ørland. Joint Viking is a recurring exercise held every two years, honing Norway's defence capabilities in winter conditions.
Strategic importance of the exercise
Joint Viking is a biennial exercise of key importance for maintaining the combat readiness of the Norwegian armed forces and cooperation with allies. In the context of the current security situation in Europe, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, regular military training becomes particularly significant.
Norway, with its long coastline and strategic location in the Arctic region, plays a crucial role in NATO's defense system. Exercises like Joint Viking allow for testing the rapid deployment of allied forces, coordination of operations, and operating in challenging climatic conditions.
Scope of the exercise
The maneuvers will include land, sea, and air operations, focusing on cooperation between allied forces in winter conditions. The main activities will take place in Troms county in northern Norway, but operational activity will also cover maritime areas, including the Tarva firing range west of Ørland.
Allied reinforcements
The participation of allied troops in the exercise is vital for strengthening Norway's defensive capabilities. For NATO countries, gaining knowledge of the specifics of Norwegian terrain and climatic conditions is essential, requiring regular training and the improvement of operational procedures.
Joint Viking 2025 is not only a demonstration of strength and combat readiness but also an important element in building cooperation and solidarity within NATO. The exercise aims to enhance the capability to conduct large-scale operations in demanding conditions, contributing to the strengthening of security across the entire Arctic region.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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