Denmark Bolsters Air Power with €7.5 Billion Defense Investment, Expanding F-35 fleet
COPENHAGEN – Denmark is significantly increasing its defense spending with an investment of approximately €7.5 billion, a significant portion of which is allocated to acquiring sixteen additional F-35 fighter aircraft. This purchase will bring the total Danish F-35 fleet to 43 aircraft.
The investment extends beyond air power, encompassing new naval ships, drones, and the construction of a military headquarters in Greenland. Approximately half of the budget will focus on strengthening Denmark’s presence in the Arctic region, including a new Arctic base in Nuuk, Greenland, and the installation of new radar systems. The country is also considering Boeing’s P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to replace its four Bombardier CL-604 Challengers, enhancing surveillance capabilities.
Denmark initially selected the F-35 in 2016 to replace its aging F-16 fleet, which has been in service since the 1980s.Following a complete evaluation process that included the Eurofighter Typhoon and Saab Gripen, Copenhagen chose the American F-35 due to its stealth capabilities, interoperability within NATO, and projected long service life. Deliveries of the first Danish F-35s began in 2023,with a planned phase-out of the F-16s by around 2027.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that Denmark aims “to have a much more visible presence in all parts of Greenland, with the navy, air force and army.”
The increased investment comes amid growing pressure from both the United States and Russia,with Washington previously expressing concerns about Denmark’s commitment to securing Greenland. prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is a vocal advocate for increased defense spending among European leaders, and Denmark has recently also invested in long-range missiles and air defense systems.