Norwegian-made NASAMS air defense systems are playing a major role in protecting Ukraine’s airspace, President Volodymyr Zelensky said.
According to Zelensky, the Ukrainian armed forces already operate more than 10 NASAMS batteries, and Ukraine continues to receive additional systems and missiles.
He praised Norway’s extensive support since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. During the winter of 2025–2026, as Russian airstrikes targeted Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure, Oslo supplied natural gas to Kyiv, helping the country get through one of the war’s toughest winters.
Zelensky also highlighted Norway’s active role in the PURL program, under which NATO countries purchase U.S. weapons for Ukraine. Oslo ranks second by financial contributions, having provided about $970 million to PURL to date.
In 2026, Norway’s government will deliver $7 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including $1.4 billion for drones, $700 million for air defense systems, $200 million for artillery and $125 million for U.S. weapons via PURL.
NASAMS entered service with Ukraine several years ago. The Norwegian mobile, medium-range air defense system was adopted by Norway’s army in 1994 and uses AIM-120A missiles. It can engage targets at ranges of 2.5 to 25 kilometers and at altitudes from 0.03 to 16 kilometers, with a single-missile hit probability of 0.85.
Italy will also transfer its SIDAM-25 air defense systems to Ukraine.
In addition, American Tempest anti-aircraft buggies with missiles have entered service with Ukrainian forces.
