KNM Nordkapp attracts attention. It is not everyday to see an armed Norwegian naval Faroe island on the River Thames.
The former coastguard vessel has been given a new role as flagship in NATO’s mine clearance force, and has a clear agenda when it sails into London on 23 February.
– Our mission is primarily to show NATO’s presence in allied countries, says Commander Captain Ole Torstein Sjo to TV 2.
– Good recruitment despite the seriousness
The commanding captain says that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has made the navy more serious.
– The war is getting closer to us, he notes and adds:
– It makes you think a little more about what you do and the profession you have chosen, but personally I also think it makes more sense. I think many people think so.
Ole Torstein Sjo points out that several conscripts have extended their service period to join NATO’s mission, which KNM Nordkapp leads until July 2023.
– The navy is of course grateful that they do, because it increases the vessel’s striking power considerably.
From the engine room, Lieutenant Trøen states his dedication:
– For my part, I like to explore and experience. It is very exciting to participate in such a mission.
MAINTENANCE MANAGER: Lieutenant Trøen is responsible for the maintenance of the vessel. Photo: Andrew Blake / TV 2
Private Ivar Engelund, on the other hand, admits that he has felt the seriousness of the mission.
– There is a little extra in the mind, I must admit. But if you do as you are told, it usually goes well.
Stoltenberg: – Russia is stepping up
February 24 marked one year since Russia’s full invasion of Ukraine.
On the same day, reports came from the Ukrainian military that Russia has doubled the number of ships in the Black Sea to at least ten.
– This may indicate preparations for new attacks, says military expert Tom Røseth to TV 2.
The EU responded with another sanctions package against Russia on 24 February, the tenth of its kind. From a press conference in Poland on 22 February, with, among others, US President Joe Biden and several NATO countries, Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg had the following message:
– Russia and Putin are not preparing for peace, but more war. We must give Ukraine what it needs to win the war.
Stoltenberg’s – Putin is preparing for more war
The assignment can be changed
Commander Captain Ole Torstein Sjo says he praises Nato’s leader for steadfastness, and says that the guidelines Nato has imposed on the vessel are clear.
– We are not a party to the war, and Nato is a defense alliance. Our tasks as the flagship of NATO’s naval clearance force are to be visible, as well as to clear mines from the seabed and water volume to ensure freedom of movement for forces and merchant ships.
ON DUTY: Commander Captain Ole Torstein Sjo
At KNM Nordkapp, they are nevertheless determined that the mission can be changed, but that it should not be because of NATO’s efforts, Commander Captain Sjo states:
– It is important for NATO when we are out sailing that we do not provoke, but we must be very clear that we are here. We are capable of and, in the worst case scenario, we should be able to defend NATO’s alliance members.
