Norway allocates 5.7 billion NOK for police AI and drones

The Norwegian government is allocating 5.7 billion Norwegian kroner to modernize the police force through a major digital upgrade focused on artificial intelligence and drones. Justice and Preparedness Minister Astri Aas-Hansen describes this initiative as one of the largest investments in the Norwegian police of all time.

The initial funding consists of 500 million kroner proposed in the upcoming state budget. The entire modernization program is expected to cost between 12 and 13 billion kroner, spread across three phases over an eleven-year period.

National Police Commissioner Håkon Skulstad states that the new technology will free up police resources, improve safety, and enhance investigations. Drones are already operational in Oslo and can communicate directly with suspects using pre-recorded or live voice messages.

Digitalization and Public Administration Minister Torgeir Micaelsen emphasizes that criminals are already utilizing artificial intelligence on a large scale, making it necessary for the police to adopt the same technologies to keep pace.