New order brings Denmark’s total fifth-generation aircraft to 43
The Danish Ministry of Defence has announced it will order an additional 16 F-35A Lightning II fighters from Lockheed Martin, significantly expanding the country’s air power and strengthening its contribution to NATO missions. The information was confirmed on the official website of the Danish government.
According to the statement, the new purchase “will strengthen the Armed Forces’ combat capabilities and allow Denmark to more effectively protect national territory and areas under its responsibility, including Greenland.”
Integration with the layered air defense system
The F-35A will be an essential part of Denmark’s developing air defense system, which consists of short-, medium-, and long-range protection layers. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized that the acquisition followed recent negotiations with the leadership of the international F-35 program in the United States:
“In July, I was in the U.S. discussing the possibility of quickly acquiring additional F-35 fighters. Now, with the funds approved, we can rapidly and significantly strengthen the combat power of our Armed Forces.”
Strategic decision amid the international security landscape
Despite uncertainties caused by the U.S. arms export policy during Donald Trump’s administration — which initially led Copenhagen to consider alternative options — the Ministry of Defence reaffirmed that “there are no real alternatives to the F-35” in today’s market. The decision was driven by the need to reinforce national defense in the face of a potential Russian threat.
Denmark’s Chief of Defence, Michael Hildgaard, stated: “By expanding the fleet to 43 F-35 fighters, we are decisively strengthening the Kingdom’s defenses. The aircraft is already a central part of our operations and ensures Danish air sovereignty.”
Delivery and operation
The original contract provided for the delivery of 27 aircraft, which will gradually replace the veteran F-16s. With the new order, the total fleet will expand to 43 units.
The first F-35s arrived at Skrydstrup Air Base in October 2023. Currently, the Royal Danish Air Force operates 15 aircraft in the country and six at a training base in the United States. Deliveries of the initial 27 fighters are expected to be completed by 2026, with full operational readiness projected for 2027.
Denmark, which has been part of the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program since its inception, also contributed financially to the development of the F-35, securing its status as a full partner in the international consortium.
Sources and images: Militarnyi | Danish Ministry of Defence | Danish Armed Forces. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
