[4] Within any democratic and transparent nation, the rule of law and Rechtsstaat principle of regulating executive powers is fundamental.

The Norwegian Constitution,[5] Article 99, forbids the use of military personnel and powers against the citizens unless warranted by act of parliament or insurrection.

Since no special executive authority is given, the rule of law principle strongly limits NORDSD to only operate within the Armed Forces.

The legislative branch exercises its control through the Norwegian Parliamentary Intelligence Oversight Committee, (EOS-committee),[11] which is an independent watch-dog that has monitored NORDSD activities since 2003.

The insignia symbolism is as follows: Since NORDSD is not a part of the Norwegian Army lifeguard division ((this role is filled by His Majesty the King's Guards (HMKG) and the Military Academy (KS) - Linderud)), the standard gold colour is used.