The Ministry of Defence is the Norwegian government department responsible for formulating and executing national defence and security policy, as well as providing civilian oversight of the Norwegian Armed Forces. It directs overall defence planning, resource allocation, and participation in international alliances, maintaining Norway's strategic commitments as a founding member of NATO. Although precursor military administration dates back to 1814, the unified modern ministry was officially established on September 1, 1885, through the merger of the separate Army and Navy ministries.