Norway’s Defence Department is citing the war in Ukraine as justification for accelerating the construction of a new explosives factory in Hurum. Critics are challenging the government’s rationale, arguing the claim of urgency is not well-founded. The department maintains the situation in Ukraine makes increasing domestic explosives production “time-critical.” The proposed factory has faced previous opposition due to environmental and safety concerns. Opponents suggest the government is using the conflict to bypass thorough consideration of these issues. The debate centers on whether the current geopolitical climate warrants expediting a project with potential risks and local opposition. Further discussion is expected regarding the necessity and timeline of the factory’s construction.