Denmark’s defence is set to speed up the construction of new frigates, leveraging support from shipping giant A.P. Møller – Maersk. In a world marked by increasing geopolitical tensions, Denmark urgently requires enhanced naval capabilities.
According to reports by DR Nyheder, Maersk has proposed aiding the Danish Ministry of Defence through its established shipyard in South Korea, traditionally used for constructing commercial container ships.
Maersk offers shipyard solution in South Korea
The Maersk-owned shipyard in South Korea could potentially produce frigate hulls for Denmark. This offer comes as a significant relief for Denmark’s Ministry of Defence, which currently lacks domestic facilities capable of constructing large naval vessels. Moreover, the global shipbuilding market faces long waiting times, complicating timely defence procurement.
“We will always be open to offering assistance to the Danish government, including contacting relevant shipyards and supporting the design and construction process considering price, quality, and delivery time, along with financing options,” stated Maersk’s holding company.
However, Maersk declined to specify further details about the offer.
Political debate: build locally or abroad?
The proposal sparked criticism from several Danish political parties, notably Dansk Folkeparti (DF), which strongly advocates domestic production.
“Naval vessels must be built in Denmark, especially considering national supply security,” said DF’s Defence spokesperson, Alex Ahrendtsen. He expressed concern about constructing vessels in South Korea, citing geopolitical risks related to China’s tensions with Taiwan.
“It makes no sense in these uncertain times to place an order in South Korea. The country is close to China, which plans to invade Taiwan. That could disrupt everything for us,” Ahrendtsen warned.
Liberal Alliance also voiced concerns about future logistical and maintenance challenges, although welcoming the involvement of Danish industry.
“It’s incomprehensible that the government doesn’t prioritize national supply security more,” said Carsten Bach, Defence spokesperson for Liberal Alliance.
Defence Chief proposes new frigate fleet
Denmark’s Defence Chief, Michael Hyldgaard, recently recommended abandoning the problematic existing frigates and investing instead in new vessels designed to support Danish air defence and NATO missions. Current frigates, the Iver Huitfeldt-class vessels—named Iver Huitfeldt, Peter Willemoes, and Niels Juel—would be repurposed for lighter duties, such as patrolling Danish waters.
Ongoing negotiations and strategic implications
Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen is presently negotiating a fleet expansion plan focusing initially on smaller vessels. However, an agreement draft obtained by DR Nyheder indicates that larger frigates remain under consideration, with potential cooperation involving allied countries to ensure rapid procurement.
The critical debate hinges on balancing rapid capability enhancement with long-term strategic considerations, including supply chain security and geopolitical stability. As Denmark evaluates Maersk’s offer, the outcome will significantly influence national defence readiness and Denmark’s role within NATO maritime security operations.
