Germany and Iceland have signed a letter of intent to deepen their bilateral defense cooperation. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for a stronger NATO presence in the Arctic amid Russian activities. The cooperation includes surveillance and protection of critical infrastructure.
During a visit to Reykjavík, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) signed a letter of intent on Sunday with Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrín Gunnarsdóttir to expand military cooperation between Germany and Iceland. This step comes against the backdrop of increasing Russian activities in the Arctic, which pose threats to submarine cables and trade routes.
The declaration provides for closer cooperation in air and sea surveillance, the protection of critical infrastructure, and cyber defense. Iceland, a founding member of NATO in 1949, has no armed forces of its own. Germany plans to use the country's modern port infrastructure as a stopover for warships, submarines, and supply ships of the Bundeswehr. Additionally, the temporary stationing of P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft is under consideration.
Pistorius praised Iceland's contribution: "Here in the high north, Iceland makes an important contribution to protecting the northern flank of the alliance." His visit marks the start of a multi-day trip that also includes Canada and the United Kingdom. Gunnarsdóttir emphasized Iceland's role as a reliable partner and host for allied forces. She announced that Iceland will hold a referendum on EU accession by 2027 at the latest, and praised Germany's leading role: "From my perspective, Germany is now a leading force in strengthening security and defense in Europe."
These measures underscore the growing importance of the Arctic for NATO security.