Denmark is set to significantly expand its naval capabilities as part of a new multi-year defence agreement, although key decisions regarding new frigates are still pending. The initiative, announced by Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen (Venstre), reflects growing concerns over regional security, particularly due to the evolving threat landscape in the Arctic and North Atlantic.
The new “naval plan” (flådeplan), presented at a press conference on April 22nd, commits to a large-scale investment in Denmark’s maritime forces. This includes the acquisition of 26 smaller vessels, such as 21 for the Marinehjemmeværnet (Home Guard Navy), four for environmental and mine-laying operations, and one to monitor underwater infrastructure like sea cables. The estimated cost of these vessels is DKK 4 billion (approx. EUR 536 million), to be funded by the defence agreement and the so-called Accelerationsfond.
Frigate purchases delayed until NATO guidance
While the Government and a broad majority in Parliament have agreed on the immediate purchases, the question of acquiring new frigates, including air-defence frigates and Arctic patrol vessels, is deferred until NATO finalises its force goals in June 2025. Only then will detailed procurement and funding plans be confirmed.
“We must build a fleet capable of protecting the Kingdom of Denmark’s interests at sea,” said Poulsen. “This means developing a strategic foundation before committing to large-scale acquisitions like frigates.”
Domestic shipbuilding a political flashpoint
A key debate emerging from the plan is whether the new warships should be built in Denmark. Parties such as Dansk Folkeparti and Danmarksdemokraterne advocate for domestic production to ensure supply chain security and stimulate local industry, while others like the Conservative People’s Party (Konservative Folkeparti) are open to international construction if it accelerates deployment.
Socialdemocrat defence spokesperson Simon Kollerup stressed that Denmark has the “right conditions” to produce ships at home, which would boost maritime defence capacity and job creation. However, Liberal Alliance voiced disappointment that the plan lacks immediate financial commitment to new frigates.
Strategic priorities: Arctic security and critical infrastructure
The agreement highlights the increasing importance of Arctic sovereignty and maritime surveillance. Discussions on additional Arctic vessels will be held with Føroya Landsstýri (Faroe Islands) and Naalakkersuisut (Greenland Government), aiming to bolster the kingdom’s presence in northern waters.
Moreover, the plan includes investment in underwater drones and sonar systems to detect sub-sea threats, underlining a shift toward autonomous and dual-use defence technologies.
A historic moment in defence policy
The flådeplan is part of a broader strategy to inject DKK 170 billion (approx. EUR 22.8 billion) into Denmark’s military by 2033. Defence officials and lawmakers across party lines agree that the move is a critical response to a more volatile security environment, especially amid rising tensions with Russia and the need for faster reaction capabilities.
“This is a historic and necessary step,” said acting Chief of Defence Michael W. Hyldgaard. “We are making sure that the Royal Danish Navy can meet future threats—both above and below the sea.”
