Counter-drone in Denmark: 2.1 billion kroner for defence and surveillance capabilities

In view of the current security situation, Denmark is investing heavily in its defence capabilities. According to an announcement by the Ministry of Defence, substantial funds are to go into additional counter-drone and surveillance capabilities for the Danish Armed Forces. AI systems (artificial intelligence) that support decision-making are also planned.

The total volume: around 2.1 billion kroner (Danish kroner), equivalent to some 281 million euros.

The reason is that drones are increasingly becoming a danger – to critical infrastructure as well as to military facilities and densely populated areas. Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stressed: “The recent drone incidents have clearly shown how urgently we need to strengthen our defence capabilities. I am pleased that substantial funds are now being provided to do exactly that”. He added: “These investments underline that Denmark is consistently expanding its capabilities for dealing with hybrid threats.”

Michael Wiggers Hyldgaard, Denmark's Chief of Defence, also underlined the importance of the new technologies: “Drones have fundamentally changed warfare – we see that every day in Ukraine. With a massive investment in counter-drone systems, we are significantly increasing the protection of our units and facilities and ensuring that the armed forces remain prepared for conventional and hybrid threats in future.”

Beyond counter-drone: new infantry fighting vehicles for the army

At the same time, the army's equipment is to be modernised more quickly. Instead of upgrading 44 existing infantry combat vehicles, 44 new infantry fighting vehicles are to be bought on Hyldgaard's recommendation. They are to supplement the 115 CV9035MkIIIC that have already been ordered from BAE Systems under the 2024–2033 defence agreement.

The Chief of Defence explained: “New procurement is the right way – it noticeably strengthens the army and ensures uniform, technologically advanced systems”. Minister Poulsen added: “New infantry fighting vehicles mean more combat power, more effective training, and they contribute directly to establishing the heavy brigade.”

The existing vehicles are to be phased out gradually and then serve as spare-parts donors.

New simulation systems worth 280 million kroner (around 37 million euros) are also planned for the Danish Naval Command, to further improve training and operational preparation at sea. In addition, there is an order for 16 more F-35 fighter jets – bringing the Danish F-35 fleet to a total of 43 aircraft.