Norway’s ageing runways test Nato’s northern air ambitions

Norway’s military aviation infrastructure is coming under growing pressure as ageing runways at several strategically important air bases show signs of significant deterioration. 

According to reporting by Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, runway surfaces at Bardufoss, Andøya, Sola and Banak all require major upgrades, while military officials warn that delays could affect operational availability.

The issue comes as Nato increases its focus on the Nordic region and allied aircraft activity in northern Norway continues to grow. Several of the affected airfields play critical roles in receiving allied forces, supporting air surveillance missions and enabling rapid military reinforcement.

At Andøya Air Station in northern Norway, large sections of the concrete infrastructure date back to the 1950s. The base was originally slated for closure but was later reactivated following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. 

It is now intended to serve as a key reception hub for allied aircraft. However, extensive wear has restricted military flying activity, and parts of the airfield remain unavailable for routine operations.

At Bardufoss Air Station, daily inspections are conducted to identify loose material on the runway. 

The base hosts the Royal Norwegian Air Force flight school and supports helicopters operated by both the Norwegian Army and Coast Guard. It is also used extensively by British forces conducting winter training in Norway.

Some improvements are already being initiated. 

At Andøya, Nato funding is being used to rehabilitate sections of the main runway, particularly at the northern and southern thresholds, where aircraft engines place significant stress on the pavement during take-off. 

According to Forsvarsbygg, the Norwegian Defence Estates Agency, work on the southern threshold is already under way and is scheduled for completion in 2026.

Additional projects are being assessed, including rehabilitation and a possible extension of Andøya’s crosswind runway. The agency stated that Nato planning priorities form the basis for project selection and financing decisions.