King Haakon visits Finnmark Brigade

King Haakon VIII of Norway has visited the Armed Forces in Finnmark.

King Haakon’s visit began at Jarfjord border station, a few kilometres from Kirkenes Airport. At Jarfjord border station, King Haakon received a briefing and was given a demonstration of the equipment used by the soldiers. He also met with the dog handlers and their dogs. 

King Haakon spent the night at Jarfjord border station and began the second day of his visit with a run with the soldiers. They ate breakfast together, and the King learned more about everyday life. 

Later in the day, King Haakon received briefings on the security situation from Police Chief Trond Eirik Nilsen, Border Commissioner Gøran Stenseth and Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Audun Jørstad.

The King’s visit continued at Porsanger and the Finnmark Brigade headquarters at Porsangmoen. At the Hálkavárri firing and training range, the King learned more about the equipment the brigade uses, such as the K9 artillery vehicle, the CV90 mortar vehicle, the PIORUN portable air defence system, drones and the SISU command post vehicle.

At Porsangmoen, King Haakon met with Finnmark Home Guard District 17, who showed him their tasks and activities in the area. He received a tour of the garrison, the Defence building, and the Finnmark Technical Workshop.