OREANDA-NEWS  The Norwegian government intends to increase defense spending by $56 billion (600 billion kronor) in the next 12 years, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gar Stere said. AP quotes him as saying and calls the announced cost increase historic.

It is assumed that all types of troops will be reinforced in Norway.

"We need a defense that will meet our goals in the current security situation," Gar Stere said.

According to him, the government wants to spend a total of $152 billion (1.624 trillion kronor) on defense by 2036. He added that during this period, Norway, among other things, expects to acquire five new frigates and submarines.

"A stronger defense will serve as a deterrent to those who intend to threaten the security of Norway and our allies," the prime minister stressed.

The document prepared by the government notes that such measures are related, in particular, to the strained relations between Norway and Russia. The plan prepared by the Norwegian Government will now be submitted to Parliament for consideration. It is expected that the deputies from the ruling coalition will approve this proposal.