Norway begins with four elderly coastal-defense ships, three pre-First World War destroyers, and a collection of torpedo boats, while its later exile fleet becomes largely an escort force. With little time to replace that material, institutional readiness offers the fastest improvement. Mobilization exercises would train personnel and test rapid call-up systems. Complaints from people in the north, watching possible invasion and developments involving Finland and the Soviet Union, also support giving local commanders authority to react. Armed neutrality has to be practiced before it can be credible.
Chapter · 7:43-10:10
Norway needs a practiced armed neutrality
Exercises, rapid call-up procedures, and authority for local commanders would turn Norway's declared neutrality into a posture its navy could enforce.