Captain Kay Norheim

Program Manager - Government Relations, Fleet Plan Norwegian Ministry of Defence

Kay Norheim is a Captain (N) in the Royal Norwegian Navy, currently serving as Program Manager at the Norwegian Ministry of Defence (MOD) in Oslo. Kay leads Norway's naval fleet plan — one of the largest and most strategically significant procurement efforts in the country's history — as part of the broader modernisation of the Royal Norwegian Navy's vessel structure set out in Norway's long-term defence plan. Under the plan, Norway is acquiring up to six new ocean-going frigates equipped with maritime helicopters and anti-submarine warfare capability, developing a new international standardized vessel class for both ocean-going and coastal operations, and procuring new submarines in partnership with Germany and Canada. Kay's career reflects a broad base of operational, staff, and international experience across the Royal Norwegian Navy and NATO structures: He served in the Royal Norwegian Navy's submarine force, including as a Commanding Officer. Norwegian Defence Staff – Held a position within the Defence Staff, contributing to national-level defence planning and policy work. As a military assistant (MA) to the Norwegian Chief of Defence he gained experience at the highest levels of military leadership. His work encompassed strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and international defence cooperation, supporting informed decision-making on matters of national security and organizational leadership. NATO Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFC Norfolk) – Served at NATO's Joint Force Command in Norfolk, Virginia, gaining direct experience in allied and multinational operations and planning. Norwegian Ministry of Defence – Currently Program Manager and head of Norway's fleet renewal program. engaging senior stakeholders in both the Norway and allied nations. In recognition of this work, Kay Norheim has been selected for and has completed the armed forces senior executive course, a senior national program bringing together key civilian and military leaders to deepen expertise in defence, foreign, and security policy. Education Royal Norwegian Naval Academy Staff College Senior executive Course at Norwegian Defence University College.