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Allied patrolling in the southern Barents Sea
Norwegian and British Naval vessels recently conducted an operational patrol in international waters of the southern Barents Sea.
Closely shadowed by Russian Navy vessels, the British frigate HMS Northumberland, the British replenishment vessel RFA Tiderace and the Norwegian frigate HNoMS Thor Heyerdahl recently conducted a patrol in the southern parts of the Barents Sea.
"Increased allied presence in Norway and in our neighboring areas is a part of the new normal. We see that our allies have their eyes directed towards the north, and more often utilising our surrounding areas to train and operate. This increased allied focus is welcomed by Norway, and important for our security", said commander Pål Gudbrandsen, acting commander of the Royal Norwegian Navy.
The patrolling was carried out in international waters, outside Norwegian and Russian territorial Waters in September.
"Military operations in the High North can be challenging. In order for allies to successfully operate in these areas, we need to train and operate here frequently. We have a good historic and continued record of cooperation, cooperating closely with our allies on operations in the High North Region", said Gudbrandsen.
Shadowed by the Russian Navy
The Russians closely monitored the allied fleet.
"The same way as we closely monitor and shadow Russian activity in our neighboring areas, they keep a vigilant eye on ours. This is expected and it is entirely normal", said Gudbrandsen.
Allied interaction with the Russian Navy assets is professional and normal.
"The Russians act professionally while operating around us. We see no aggression and we interact with each other as professional seafarers", said Gudbrandsen.
Gudbrandsen believes that Norwegian participation in allied operations in the Nigh North upholds security and stability.
"We know how to operate in the High North and in the vicinity of Russian naval vessels. Sharing our experience on these matters has a calming effect. It enhances our collective security and stability", said Gudbrandsen.
The patrolling is now completed and HNoMS Thor Heyerdahl has also conducted a routine port visit to Svalbard, while the British asset have returned to UK to take part in the multinational exercise Joint Warrior.