Norwegian ministers announce 277 million kroner budget increase for Home Guard in Setnesmoen Camp

Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram and Finance Minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum visited Setnesmoen Camp, the headquarters of the Møre and Fjordane Home Guard District, on Monday. During their visit, they announced a budget increase of 277 million kroner for the Home Guard in next year’s state budget.

If the ruling parties achieve their budget negotiation goals, the allocation of these additional funds will be:
– 124 million kroner for annual training for all Home Guard units.
– 95 million kroner for additional Home Guard soldiers.
– 31 million kroner for improved clothing and equipment.
– 16 million kroner for paid positions to enhance activities in Home Guard units.
– 11 million kroner for more youth programs.

The government’s proposed state budget will be presented on October 7.

The proposal will ensure that every Home Guard unit conducts training at least once a year, with sessions lasting five to seven days. Minister Gram emphasized that adequate training lengths are vital for effective preparation.

Richard Moen, the district chief for HV11, expressed that the government’s proposal would facilitate better planning and execution of exercises, leading to enhanced training quality for both soldiers and leaders.

Minister Gram highlighted the significance of this investment in the Home Guard for Norway’s foundational security, underscoring its role as a constant presence throughout the country.

Minister Vedum characterized the budget increase as a robust enhancement, noting that the overall budget for the Home Guard is now over 2 billion kroner, which will lead to more training and better equipment. He also indicated plans to raise the Home Guard personnel from the current 40,500 to 45,000 in the coming years, considering its value as an economical resource in civil crises.