United to win: Norway’s involvement in Interflex operation in Britain bolsters Ukrainian military training

Ukrainian soldiers are undergoing intensive training as part of the multinational INTERFLEX operation in Great Britain. Norway is one of the participating countries in this initiative, which has been providing training for Ukrainian troops since October 2022 to better equip them for their fight for independence.

The General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces reported that.

As the military command noted, the Norwegian instructors of the ELLISEV operation conduct comprehensive training, which includes the following skills:

• tactics,
• storming the trenches,
• throwing grenades,
• detection of mines and their disposal,
• fire training,
• as well as the evacuation of the wounded.

These courses are carefully designed to provide the Ukrainian military with the necessary skills for effective combat operations.

In addition, Ukrainian fighters learn how to respond to drone attacks and practice actions in different conditions and times of day to be ready for any scenarios on the battlefield.

Moreover, Norway's contributions extend beyond military training. The country also provides substantial support to Ukraine in the form of weapons, including anti-aircraft missiles, artillery, armored vehicles, and mine clearance equipment. Furthermore, Norway's financial aid plays a vital role in funding critical sectors such as energy and healthcare.

Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasized that military aid and training of Ukrainian soldiers are critical elements of supporting Ukraine. Norway is also actively involved in creating a coalition with Great Britain to strengthen the defense of Ukraine's coast.

"Together with the UK, we are spearheading a coalition to assist Ukraine in strengthening its coastal and maritime defenses. Training Ukrainian soldiers has been a crucial element of our military aid, and currently, Norwegian Armed Forces instructors are providing training in the UK, Germany, Lithuania, and Norway," he said.

In his turn, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed that his country's support for Ukraine remains a long-term commitment. Norway provides both military and social assistance, which is essential for Ukrainians' everyday lives in these challenging conditions.

"Norway's support for Ukraine ranges from donating air defense missiles to providing funds to pay teachers' salaries. Our contributions are essential both for Ukraine's struggle for self-defense and for the everyday life of Ukrainians.

Our support for Ukraine is a long-term commitment that the Storting [Norwegian parliament – ed.] unanimously supports. Russia's war against Ukraine is the greatest challenge to security policy of our time. The Ukrainian people are fighting for their survival and freedom.

Their struggle for self-defense is also our struggle – for democratic values ​​and European security. Therefore, Norway will continue to support Ukraine," the prime minister said.

For reference:

Since the first months of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, soldiers of Ukraine's armed forces have been undergoing various training programs in Britain. So, for the most effective military training, a special training ground was built in Britain. It is reported that its equipment and infrastructure will allow soldiers to gain experience conducting combat operations in urban conditions.

30,000 Ukrainian service members trained in Britain were also equipped with the necessary equipment for the front line by the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom.

In addition, instructors from Australia, within the scope of the training operation, helped the Ukrainian military practice preparing for proactive actions during the passage of a psychological strip in dense forests.

In addition, under the leadership of Danish instructors, Ukrainian service members are trained in conducting positional combat operations: they practice preparing, capturing, and holding a position.

Also, in Canada, Ukrainian combat medics are trained with the addition of special effects.