Tore O. Sandvik, Norway’s Minister of Defence, has confirmed that he will deliver his keynote update, outlining the latest developments in Norway’s security and defence priorities at the upcoming Forsvarskonferansen Nordic Defence and Security Conference.

Appointed Minister of Defence in February 2025, Sandvik brings extensive experience from both regional and national politics. A member of the Labour Party, he served as County Mayor of Sør-Trøndelag and later Trøndelag from 2003 to 2023, where he became a strong advocate for regional development, industrial growth, and strengthened defence capabilities in Northern Norway.

Sandvik has also held several senior government positions, including State Secretary roles in key ministries and serving as acting Minister of Climate and Environment in 2024. As Minister of Defence, he has emphasized increased preparedness, stronger allied cooperation, and a greater European responsibility for security and defence.

At Forsvarskonferansen, Sandvik will deliver his keynote update, providing an overview of Norway’s evolving security landscape, current defence priorities, and the role of industry and innovation in strengthening resilience and operational capability.

Forsvarskonferansen Nordic Defence and Security Conference will bring together representatives from the Armed Forces, industry, academia, and public sector organizations. Through presentations, discussions, exhibitions, and demonstrations of defence capabilities, the conference aims to strengthen competence, foster collaboration, and build stronger networks across the defence and security ecosystem.