Denmark is arming itself: long-range weapons against the Russian threat!

Denmark is arming itself: long-range weapons against the Russian threat!

Denmark has announced a significant step in the renewal of its defense policy. The Danish government plans to purchase long-range precision weapons to strengthen both the NATO alliance's deterrence capability and national security. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described this step as a “paradigm shift” in Danish defense policy. However, details about the weapon types, the schedule and the costs are currently unclear. According to Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, these weapon systems could consist of missiles or drones designed to neutralize threats on enemy territory. A dedicated procurement authority will assess the market and select appropriate systems to implement these plans.

The consequence of this political decision is part of a broader rearmament program that began after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Given the current security situation in Europe, the Danish parliament has decided to drastically increase defense spending. Danish secret services currently see no immediate risk of an attack on Denmark, but Russia is assessed as a real threat to NATO. Frederiksen's motto is “Buy, buy, buy!” spent to advance the military buildup offensive.

Criticism from Russia and increasing spending

The reaction from Russia was not long in coming. The Russian ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, described the plans as “sheer madness” and warned of the threat of a nuclear power. Regarding these warnings, Frederiksen dismissed the Russian statements as an attempt to intimidate and reiterated that Denmark would not be influenced by them. The purchases planned as part of this upgrade also include anti-aircraft systems from European manufacturers, the total value of which is around 7.8 billion euros.

Regarding future defense spending, Denmark plans to invest almost seven billion euros through an acceleration fund for 2025 and 2026. This would result in defense spending reaching more than three percent of gross domestic product, the highest level in 50 years. In 2024, spending has already been increased to 2.4 percent, after Denmark had remained below the two percent mark required by NATO for many years.

The geopolitical situation

The Danish government justifies the rapid implementation of this rearmament policy with the current threat from Russia. Frederiksen warns that a possible peace agreement in the Ukraine conflict on Moscow's terms could further endanger security in the region. Denmark's Defense Ministry has also warned that Russia could build up military forces to attack NATO countries within two years of a possible end to the war. Dan Smith, director of the SIPRI Institute, emphasizes the need for a diplomatic solution and the complexity of defense, regardless of the accelerated arms strategy. While large weapon systems are often not immediately available, smaller weapons could be produced more quickly, which Denmark is seeking to address the urgency of the security situation.

In summary, with these measures Denmark is providing a clear response to the changing geopolitical landscape and aligning its defense strategy to ensure both national and international security. The Danish government's decisive stance will certainly influence NATO discussions on common security strategies and attract attention, especially in Europe.

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