Denmark allocates $2B to bolster Arctic, North Atlantic defense

By Ebad Ahmed

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AA) – Denmark unveiled a major defense agreement Monday worth $2 billion (14 billion Danish kroner) to enhance its military presence in the Arctic and North Atlantic, the Danish Broadcasting Corporation (DR) reported.

“We must face the fact that there are serious challenges regarding security and defense in the Arctic and North Atlantic. For this reason, we must strengthen our presence in the region,” Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said at a press conference.

Greenland’s Minister of Statehood and Foreign Affairs, Vivian Motzfeldt, welcomed the initiative, noting that “Greenland is facing a changing security landscape. I am pleased with the steps we are taking towards increased security in and around Greenland with this partial defense agreement.”

The agreement comes amid growing geopolitical concerns, including US President Donald Trump’s controversial interest in purchasing Greenland and increasing Russian-Chinese cooperation in the Arctic.

Developed in collaboration with the Greenlandic and Faroese governments, the deal includes three new Arctic naval vessels equipped with helicopter and drone capabilities, two long-range surveillance drones, and enhanced satellite systems. It also aims to strengthen local communities by investing in workplaces and businesses in Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

Additionally, the plan introduces expanded Arctic basic military training programs for Greenlandic youth. A follow-up agreement is expected in 2025 to further bolster defense and deterrence capabilities in the region.