U.S. asks Norway to host rotational force of Marines

STOCKHOLM — The United States wants to send a 300-strong rotational force of U.S. Marines to Norway, a NATO member that shares a border with Russia in the Arctic.

Norwegian Defense Ministry spokesman Lars Gjemble said Wednesday that “a limited rotational U.S. Marine Corps presence in Norway is a possible option currently being considered.”

Maj. Gen. Niel E. Nelson, the commander of U.S. Marine Corps Forces in Europe and Africa, confirmed the plans in a statement, adding “it would be premature to discuss possible implementation of such an initiative” before the political process is completed.

The force would be based in Vaernes in central Norway. Maj. Richard K. Ulsh, a Germany-based Marine Corps spokesman, said it would be the first time U.S. Marines are stationed in Norway.