Germany and Norway plan Europe's Space-Independency

Closer cooperation Independent Europe: Berlin and Oslo make Space Plans

2026-03-14 Source: dpa 1 min Reading Time

Germany and Norway aim to make Europe more independent in space travel together. A key role in this endeavour is to be played by a spaceport in northern Norway.

On the path to achieving independent European space capabilities, Germany and Norway intend to collaborate more closely in the future. "We have relied for far too long on other launch systems and other nations around the world," said Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a visit to the Norwegian spaceport Andøya, located 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. "This is now Europe's hour."

A working group comprising representatives from the ministries and industries of both countries will explore the possibilities for closer cooperation, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre stated at a joint press conference on Friday. "The group will work on proposals for concrete projects, along with timelines and potential connections to EU and NATO frameworks."

Space exploration is an increasingly important area where the two countries complement each other, emphasised the Norwegian Prime Minister: "Germany has a broad industrial base—here in Norway, we have technology, established research fields, and a unique strategic geographic location." The German start-up Isar Aerospace plans to conduct a second rocket test flight from the Andøya spaceport starting next week.

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