Denmark will allocate around 58 billion kroner ($9.1 billion) to acquire European-made air and missile defense systems, the defense ministry announced, citing lessons from Russia’s war in Ukraine.
For long-range coverage, Denmark will procure the French-Italian SAMP/T system. For medium-range defense, the ministry is weighing options between the Norwegian NASAMS, German IRIS-T, and French VL MICA systems.
A total of eight systems will be purchased, each with multiple fire units. The first system is expected to be operational in 2025. The procurement plan still requires parliamentary approval.
The ministry noted that in June, Denmark had opted for an urgent medium-range acquisition to deliver near-term results. Based on military recommendations, Copenhagen has now decided to invest in a combination of long- and medium-range solutions, incorporating the fast-tracked system into the broader program.
Officials emphasized that the investment should not be viewed as a rejection of US systems, but rather as a strategic step to build layered European defenses.
