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Norway has announced it will purchase top-of-the-line missiles from the United States in an effort to strengthen its defensive capabilities.

What’s the deal: According to Norway’s Defense Ministry, the country finalized a major defense deal with the United States to acquire AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) valued at over 4 billion Norwegian crowns (about $363 million). This acquisition, one of the largest arms procurements in Norwegian history, brings advanced missile capabilities from the US.

In a statement, Defense Minister Bjoern Arild Gram said, “With more and newer missiles, the Norwegian Armed Forces will have a better ability to protect Norway against air attacks.”

Digging into the capabilities: The AIM-120C-8 missiles, part of the Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) series, are designed for both defensive and offensive air engagements. They provide versatile, high-precision capabilities to intercept and neutralize aerial threats. Known for their extended range, the AIM-120C-8 variant is equipped with enhanced guidance systems and advanced radar that enable accurate tracking and targeting of enemy aircraft and incoming missiles at significant distance. The missiles can also be equipped on F-35s, which Norway received from the United States in recent years.

The bigger picture: The purchase comes as tensions between Norway and Russia remain heightened, primarily due to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Norway, which shares a border with Russia, has been actively strengthening its defense posture and investing significant resources into its military. These moves have resulted in Russia accusing Norway of “deliberate escalation of hostility towards Russia.”