The contract for the delivery of these vessels was signed on November 24, 2004, and they were delivered with 12–14 months.

They provided significantly improved capabilities in all regards compared to the vessels they replaced.

This included seaworthiness (they are larger), towing capacity, fire fighting and environmental protection (collecting oil spills).

The Reine-class patrol vessel shares the same basic design, but is modified for the use of the Norwegian Sea Home Guard.

[5] The vessels of the Nornen class are named after Norse mythology gods and beings.