Norway launches drone education program amid expert doubts

In the northern town of Bardufoss, plans are moving forward for a new drone education program designed to train operators for advanced unmanned systems. The initiative comes as Norway’s defense and civilian sectors increasingly rely on drone technology for surveillance, logistics and emergency response. Local authorities announced the program last month, with the first classes scheduled to begin in January 2025. But skepticism is growing among industry professionals. A group of engineers and drone operators working in the Arctic region told TU.no they question whether the curriculum will match real-world demands. One critic, a senior engineer at a Tromsø-based drone company, said the program’s focus on theoretical training lacks hands-on experience with the latest sensor systems used in extreme weather conditions. The education path includes two tracks: one for military applications and another for civilian use. The military track will be run in cooperation with the Norwegian Armed Forces, while the civilian track is supported by regional development funds. Officials say the goal is to create a national standard for drone operators, reducing reliance on foreign training. Critics argue that Bardufoss, despite its strategic location near key military and research bases, may not offer the ideal training environment. They point to the need for specialized facilities capable of simulating Arctic drone operations, including ice testing and low-visibility flights. So far, the education authority has not confirmed whether such infrastructure will be built before the first intake. The program’s supporters highlight Norway’s growing drone sector, which saw a 30% increase in commercial drone licenses issued last year. They say the education initiative will help meet rising demand for skilled operators in sectors like oil and gas, fisheries and search and rescue. Source: tu.no