UK Moves Forward with New Naval Agreements with Turkey and Scandinavian Countries
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that, following a £10 billion shipbuilding agreement with Norway, similar defense partnerships are now being discussed with Turkey, Denmark, and Sweden.
The agreement, unveiled last week, involves the delivery of Type 26 frigates developed by BAE Systems to the Royal Norwegian Navy. These vessels, known for their advanced submarine detection and elimination capabilities, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2030.
Valued at approximately $13 billion, the deal marks the largest defense industry agreement ever signed between the UK and Norway. Reports indicate that Norway had considered other potential partners—including France, Germany, and the United States—before ultimately choosing the UK.
Starmer: “We’re Also in Talks with Turkey”
Speaking to workers at BAE Systems’ Govan shipyard in Glasgow, Starmer emphasized that the Norway deal is only the beginning for Britain:
“European countries are all increasing their defense spending and looking for reliable partners to build the infrastructure they need. Norway was the first step. We’re continuing discussions with Denmark, Sweden, Turkey, and other nations.”
UK’s Defense Industry Strategy
The Labour government has made revitalizing the UK’s defense industry a strategic priority. The administration in London aims to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035.
The Norway agreement is expected to create around 4,000 direct jobs, with more than half of those positions based at BAE’s shipyards in Glasgow.
Starmer underscored the significance of the deal, stating:
“I hope this contract is just the first step, and that many more partnerships will follow.”
