Norwegian Air Force

Norwegian Air Force
Skjoldbro · Public domain · source
Unit name	Norwegian Air Force
Native name	Luftforsvaret
Founded	10 November 1944
Country	Norway
Branch	Royal Norwegian Air Force
Type	Air force
Role	Aerial warfare
Size	3,700 personnel (2023)
Command structure	Norwegian Armed Forces
Garrison	Reitan
Garrison label	Headquarters
Current commander	Major General Rolf Folland
Identification symbol	Roundel of Norway
Aircraft attack	F-35 Lightning II
Aircraft fighter	F-35 Lightning II
Aircraft patrol	P-8 Poseidon
Aircraft transport	C-130J Super Hercules
Aircraft trainer	DA20 Falcon

Norwegian Air Force. The Norwegian Air Force, known as *Luftforsvaret*, is the aerial warfare branch of the Norwegian Armed Forces. Established during World War II while the government was in exile, it has evolved into a modern force focused on the defense of Norwegian airspace and participation in NATO operations. Its headquarters is located at Reitan near Bodø, and it operates a fleet centered on advanced platforms like the F-35 Lightning II.

History

The origins of a separate air arm date to 1914 with the establishment of the Norwegian Army Air Service. The modern force was formally founded on 10 November 1944 in exile in London, building on the efforts of Norwegian airmen who served with the Royal Air Force, notably in No. 331 and No. 332 Squadrons. During the Cold War, the Air Force was a critical frontline component for NATO, operating bases like Bodø Main Air Station to counter the Soviet Union. Key historical aircraft included the F-104 Starfighter, F-5 Freedom Fighter, and F-16 Fighting Falcon, the latter introduced in the 1980s. The post-Cold War era saw participation in international operations over Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Libya.

Organization

The Air Force is commanded by the Chief of the Royal Norwegian Air Force, currently Major General Rolf Folland, from the Joint Headquarters in Bodø. The operational command is divided between two main units: the 131 Air Wing at Bodø Air Station and the 132 Air Wing at Ørland Air Station. Specialized units include the Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM) for tactical support and the Norwegian Air Force School at Kjevik. The force works closely with allied air commands, particularly Allied Air Command in Ramstein Air Base, and integrates with the Norwegian National Air Operations Centre (NAOC) for air surveillance and control.

Aircraft

The current inventory is undergoing a significant modernization. The primary fighter fleet is transitioning to the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II, with deliveries to Ørland Air Station and Evenes Air Station. The maritime patrol role is fulfilled by the newly acquired P-8 Poseidon, replacing the long-serving P-3 Orion. Transport and logistical support is provided by C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and Bell 412 helicopters. Training utilizes the DA20 Falcon and will soon incorporate the MFI-15 Safari. The MQ-9 Reaper is operated for reconnaissance missions in support of NORSOCOM.

Bases

Major operational air bases are strategically located along Norway's coast. Key installations include Ørland Air Station, the main base for the F-35 Lightning II; Bodø Air Station, a historic fighter base now hosting control functions; and Evenes Air Station, a vital base for Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) duties with the F-35. Gardermoen Air Station handles air transport with the C-130J, while Andøya Air Station previously hosted maritime patrol aircraft. Surveillance is conducted from stations like Sørreisa and Værnes, which host radar sites integrated into the NATO Air Defence Ground Environment.

Operations

The Air Force's primary peacetime mission is maintaining 24/7 Quick Reaction Alert to police Norwegian airspace and approaches to NATO territory, frequently intercepting Russian military aircraft. It regularly participates in major allied exercises such as Cold Response in Norway and Red Flag at Nellis Air Force Base. Internationally, it has contributed to NATO missions including Operation Unified Protector over Libya and enhanced Air Policing in the Baltic states from Šiauliai Air Base. The force also provides strategic airlift, search and rescue via the 330 Squadron, and special operations support.

Future developments

Future capabilities are centered on the full integration of the F-35 Lightning II fleet, with plans to declare full operational capability. The introduction of the P-8 Poseidon will significantly enhance Anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance capacities. A major infrastructure program is underway to modernize bases like Evenes Air Station and Ørland Air Station. The force is also exploring the acquisition of new transport helicopters and further investments in unmanned systems, while deepening integration with key allies like the United States Air Force and the Royal Air Force within the NATO framework.

Category:Military of Norway Category:Air forces by country