The Norwegian Ministry of Defence has announced its intention to invite the British, French, German, and US governments to begin discussions regarding a potential strategic partnership for deliveries of new frigates to replace the current Fridtjof Nansen class.
In June 2024 the Norwegian Parliament passed a new long-term plan for the Norwegian Armed Forces, which calls for the acquisition of a minimum of five, optionally six, new anti-submarine frigates with embarked anti-submarine helicopters. The contenders for the multi-billion project are the British Type 26, French FDI, German Type 126 and the US FREMM-based Constellation class.
The plan stresses that the new frigates are not to be procured as standalone vessels, but through a long-term and mutually beneficial strategic partnership that has benefits for Norwegian industry. A decision on the acquisition programme is expected in 2025.