NORWAY, RUSSIA SHARPEN PACT ON MILITARY MOVES

摘要

Norway has finalized an updated security agreement with Russia that adds strengthened protocols for avoiding high-risk encounters between aircraft and naval vessels in the high north region. The agreement comes at a time when Norway and Russia have increased military activities there. The updated agreement includes new enhancements to the existing Incidents at Sea Agreement, or INCSEA, between the two nations. "The reality is we are seeing more military activity in Norway's neighborhood in the high north. Russia has increased its activity, and Norway's armed forces have also bolstered their presence," said Norwegian Defence Minister Frank Bakke-Jensen. Norway and Russia signed their first INCSEA in 1990. The Norwegian government amended it June 7, and the amendments were ratified by parliament Aug. 14. The updated pact covers the operations of naval ships and military aircraft outside the 12 nautical miles territorial water limit.