British Marines conducting exercises in Norway as part of preparations for potential conflict with Russia, with troop numbers expected to reach 2,000 next year.
British Marines Exercises in Norway
Exercises involving British Royal Marines are currently underway at the British Camp Viking facility in northern Norway. The marines are preparing for a scenario where Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, concerning NATO collective defense, would be activated. Camp Viking, opened in 2023, has seen a steady increase in participating soldiers.
UK Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper told Politico that in three years of the center’s operation, the British have doubled the number of marines in Norway, with an expected 2,000 personnel next year.
Russia as a Security Threat
On Thursday, January 15, the commander of British Royal Marines Jamie Norman visited Camp Viking. In conversation with his Norwegian counterpart, he stated that “we are no longer at peace.”
From their perspective, the UK is on a continuum where one side is war and the other is peace. The British emphasize the need to develop NATO military cooperation in light of the threat Russia poses to Arctic security.
New Veteran Mobilization Regulations
The Telegraph reported that the British government plans to change regulations concerning veteran mobilization. The British aim to raise the age limit for veterans who can be mobilized if necessary from 55 to 65, a change that would enable the mobilization of tens of thousands of former soldiers.
Deputy Defense Minister Al Carns has spoken about the need to strengthen the UK’s defense capabilities, stating in December that war “is already knocking on Europe’s door.” He added that the UK should prepare for a conflict larger than the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
