Nato figures show Norway spent more on defense last year than the United States when measured per capita and as a share of gross domestic product. The data highlights a shift in European security spending amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Norway’s defense budget reached 1.5% of GDP in 2025, while the US recorded 1.2%. Per inhabitant, Norway’s spending hit 3,200 euros, compared with 2,800 euros in the US. The figures come from Nato’s annual report released this week.
Defense analysts point to Norway’s Arctic strategy as a key driver. The country is increasing spending to secure its northern borders as Russia expands military activity in the region. Norway also hosts critical Nato infrastructure, including early-warning radar systems.
The US remains the largest absolute spender, with a total budget of 870 billion dollars. But Norway’s per capita figure stands out among Nato’s European members. Only Poland and the Baltic states spent more relative to population size.
Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the trend. He said European allies are closing the gap with the US, though he noted further increases are needed to deter Russian aggression.
Source: tu.no