Denmark announced a sweeping Arctic defence package worth 27.4bn kroner ($4.26bn) alongside an order for 16 more F-35s, a move officials framed as an assertion of sovereignty and a marked increase in combat power and flexibility within NATO. The Arctic tranche funds new ships, a Nuuk-based command headquarters, a North Atlantic undersea cable and maritime patrol aircraft.

Arctic Build-Up and Infrastructure

The plan establishes a joint Arctic Command headquarters in Greenland’s capital, adds a dedicated Arctic unit and first-responder capability, and finances maritime assets including two additional Arctic vessels, a patrol aircraft capability and a North Atlantic subsea cable to harden communications. Danish documents describe these measures as strengthening day-to-day presence and crisis response in increasingly strategic waters.

F-35 Expansion and NATO Role

With 16 additional fighters, Denmark’s F-35 fleet rises to 43; the Chief of Defence said the jets will “significantly” boost combat power, flexibility and the national contribution to allied missions, while the defence minister called it a “historic strengthening.” Officials also signalled talks with the F-35 program office to explore accelerated delivery.

Strategic Context and Recent Buys

Copenhagen has accelerated procurement amid Russia’s war on Ukraine and renewed pressure around Greenland, pairing the Arctic plan with its largest-ever purchase of European air-defence systems and a declared shift to acquire long-range precision weapons for the first time. The government says these steps reflect a tougher security environment and the need to deter future aggression.