According to the commander of the Norwegian Finnmark Brigade, Russia has stepped up espionage activities along its border with Norway, including infiltration attempts using fishing vessels arriving at Norwegian ports. Several Russian spies were discovered operating from fishing vessels traveling from Russia to Kirkenes, with some locals reportedly posing as tourists to aid espionage. Norway plans to strengthen its defense capabilities by forming a new Finnmark Brigade of about 1,300 soldiers by 2025 and enhancing light infantry battalions and ranger units. Additionally, an air defense unit, artillery battalion, and reconnaissance company will bolster the brigade amid increased border tensions. Norway’s 195-km border with Russia, actively reinforced since November 2025, is set to have new surveillance systems, radars, and camera installations to monitor movements and secure the area.
Category: Intelligence & Espionage
Subcategory: Human Intelligence (HUMINT)
Incident Type: Recruitment of locals
Country: Norway
Source report: militarnyi.com/en/news/r…
