Norway expects Russian sabotage attempts in 2027, warns defense industry and energy infrastructure at risk
Norway's domestic security service expects Russian intelligence to carry out sabotage operations in the country in 2027, warning that defense-related businesses and critical infrastructure are particularly vulnerable.
The Norwegian Police Security Service (PST) raised its assessment of the sabotage threat on November 12, citing a sharp increase in incidents across Europe during 2026.
"We believe there is good reason to expect Russian intelligence to carry out sabotage in Norway in the coming year," said Inger Haugland, head of PST's department for state threat actors.
According to PST, sabotage activity across Europe declined in 2025 but increased again in 2026, including successful attacks, attempted operations and disrupted plots.
The agency said Russian-linked operations have involved arson, explosives and drones, often using intermediaries who may not know they are acting on behalf of a foreign intelligence service.
As one example, PST cited an incident in August 2026 at Germany's Leipzig/Halle Airport, where a drone modified to carry explosives was discovered on the ground near Ukrainian transport aircraft. German authorities publicly suggested Russia could have been responsible.
Defense companies and energy infrastructure at risk
PST identified Norway's defense industry, defense-related businesses and their service providers — including logistics companies — as the most likely targets.
Critical infrastructure, particularly in the energy sector, could also be targeted.
The agency stressed that it has not uncovered any attempted sabotage operations against Norwegian targets.
However, PST said it was aware that individuals linked to Russian intelligence had already mapped infrastructure and potential targets inside Norway.
Haugland warned that Western sanctions and other restrictions had reduced Russian intelligence services' freedom of action but could prompt them to adopt new methods.
"Russian threat actors are adaptable and opportunistic," she said.
PST urged businesses and the public to report suspicious activity, noting that sabotage is intended not only to cause physical damage but also to spread fear and uncertainty.
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