UK, Norway to Counter Atlantic Undersea Threats Jointly

Defence Secretary John Healey and Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik signing the agreement | Photo: UK Ministry of Defence

The United Kingdom and Norway agreed last week to operate their naval forces jointly in the North Atlantic under a new defence framework designed to counter increased Russian submarine activity and safeguard critical undersea infrastructure. Announced on December 04, 2025, the Lunna House Agreement establishes an integrated fleet built around British-built Type 26 anti-submarine warfare frigates.

The agreement was unveiled during Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Støre’s visit to RAF Lossiemouth, where he and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met personnel involved in maritime patrol operations, including crews tracking Russian naval vessels such as the intelligence ship Yantar, detected near UK waters in recent weeks. According to the UK government, Russian vessel activity around the UK has risen by 30% in the past two years.

The framework will see eight British and at least five Norwegian Type 26 frigates operate as a combined force, supported by shared maintenance, technology and equipment. The arrangement follows a £10 billion shipbuilding contract between the two countries signed in September, described as the largest British warship deal to date.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey and Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik signed the agreement

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “At this time of profound global instability, as more Russian ships are being detected in our waters, we must work with international partners to protect our national security. This historic agreement with Norway strengthens our ability to protect our borders and the critical infrastructure our nations depend on. Through joint navy cooperation in the North Atlantic, we’re boosting security, supporting thousands of UK jobs, and showcasing Britain’s world-class shipbuilding on the global stage.”

Healey said, “In this new era of threat and with increasing Russian activity in the North Atlantic, our strength comes from hard power and strong alliances. When our critical infrastructure and waters are threatened, we step up.”

The pact includes expanded Royal Marines training in Norway, UK adoption of Norwegian naval strike missiles, cooperation on Sting Ray torpedoes, joint wargaming, and collaboration on autonomous systems in the High North. The UK will also join Norway’s programme to develop offshore support vessels for uncrewed mine-hunting and undersea warfare systems.