U.S. Navy Chief Welcomes Royal Norwegian Navy Commander in High-Stakes Counterpart Visit

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti and Rear Adm. Oliver Berdal, Chief of the Royal Norwegian Navy, convened in Washington D.C. on August 5-6 for a series of strategic discussions and ceremonial engagements.

Berdal’s visit formed part of a broader U.S. itinerary, including stops at Norfolk, Va., where he interacted with leadership from U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC), U.S. 2nd Fleet, and Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic (COMSUBLANT).

In Washington D.C., the agenda included a full-honors welcoming ceremony, an office call, and a roundtable discussion with the Deputy Chiefs of Naval Operations (DCNOs). Both leaders stressed the durability of the U.S.-Norway alliance and their joint commitment to securing the High North and the Arctic.

Franchetti emphasized, “We must collaborate closely to address the challenges in this critical region by enhancing maritime domain awareness and the integration of our forces from seabed to space. This close cooperation is fundamental to advancing our shared national security interests.”

During the DCNO roundtable, they discussed advancing maritime security cooperation, focusing on enhanced warfighting integration and new opportunities for collaboration. The discussion underscored Norway’s pivotal role in regional security, especially as Arctic routes gain accessibility.

“This visit has confirmed our strong friendship and long-lasting cooperation,” Berdal stated. “As the United States is Norway’s most important ally, it is essential for the Norwegian Navy to do everything we can to strengthen and deepen our bonds.”

In Norfolk, Berdal met with Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, USFFC, and Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, commander, COMSUBLANT. They emphasized the importance of consistent multinational exercises in and around Norway. Such exercises are vital for refining the strategic deployment of North American forces across the Atlantic and illustrating NATO’s capability to protect its territory.

This visit marked Adm. Franchetti’s inaugural meeting with the Royal Norwegian Navy’s leadership, laying the groundwork for future cooperation.