Norway's government announced on Sunday that the Norwegian Navy plans to order a new fleet of British-made ships to strengthen its maritime defense.

Germany, France Britain and the United States all submitted competing designs for frigates in a competition that is expected to be Norway's biggest military purchase to date.

The frigates are a key part of our defence because they protect our sovereignty, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said at a press briefing.

The BAE Systems T-26 City-class frigates were heavily promoted by British officials in order to achieve economies of scale and boost Scotland's shipyard industries.

Stoere stated that the government was looking to answer two questions during its selection process.

Who is our strategic partner? Who has produced the best frigates so far? ... He said that the answer to both questions is "the United Kingdom".

Norway's final contract negotiations will begin after the government makes its decision.

The government did not provide any financial information or details on how many frigates Norway can order from Britain.

Norway operates four frigates.

The Nordic nation, which has 5.6 million residents and shares a border to Russia, is increasing its defense spending as a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Also due to President Donald Trump's demands that NATO allies increase their military power. (Reporting and editing by Gwladys Fouche; Terje Solsvik and Nora Buli)

(source: Reuters)