Norway Declines U.S. Special Forces Helicopter Purchase

Norway's defense forces will not proceed with the acquisition of U.S.-made Sikorsky HH-60W 'Whiskey' helicopters, a potential replacement for aging Bell 412 models. The decision marks a significant shift after Norway had previously requested quotes for the aircraft.

The proposed deal, which included the purchase of nine helicopters, carried an estimated cost of $2.6 billion, approximately 25 billion Norwegian kroner. The U.S. government had approved Norway's request, opening the door for the potential acquisition.

However, after a thorough evaluation, Norway's defense materiel agency confirmed that the HH-60W does not align with the defense forces' current priorities. "Based on a comprehensive assessment and the Defense Forces' priorities, we are not moving forward with the HH-60W," stated Per Erlien Dalløkken, a senior advisor in the agency's communications unit, to Teknisk Ukeblad. This decision has been communicated to U.S. authorities.

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Based on a comprehensive assessment and the Defense Forces' priorities, we are not moving forward with the HH-60W. This has also been communicated to American authorities.