Norway's proximity to the USSR in the Cold War led to it building many military bunkers – some of them vast secret bases. Tensions with Russia have brought the bunkers back into focus

Summary

Norway is reactivating Cold War-era military bunkers in response to rising tensions with Russia.

Two iconic underground structures—Bardufoss Air Station and Olavsvern naval base—are being upgraded to protect expensive F-35 fighters from drone attacks and to monitor Russian naval movements in the Arctic.

Norway’s actions reflect growing concern over Russia’s military buildup and Arctic ambitions, which escalated after Russia increased military activity in the region around 2006-2008.

Other nations are following suit: Russia has reactivated about 50 Arctic bases, Sweden returned to its underground Muskö naval base, while China and Iran are building new underground military facilities.