Utviklingen av Hæren 2000-2010: mellom tradisjonalister og modernister

Abstract

This thesis analyses the evolution of the Norwegian Army from 2000 to 2010. A particular emphasis is put on different perceptions prevailing inside the Army, and how this inter-agency rivalry affects the conceptual development of a new land force. The analytical starting point is the mutually reinforcing effects from (i) a fundamentally new strategic environment after the Cold War, and (ii) the chronically economic deficiency characterising the Norwegian Armed Forces. The key research question is as follows: “Have the contradictions between traditionalists and modernists influenced the development of the Norwegian Army over the last decade, and if so, in what way?” The findings deduced from the analysis suggest that contradictions between traditionalists and modernists have affected the conceptual development of the Army. It is argued that none of the factions were either right or wrong. On the contrary, the various professional recommendations created political opportunities to “pick and chose” arguments that served a higher political agenda. This, however, severely stirred military compromises that in a long term perspective turned out unfavourably for the Norwegian Army.