Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands have agreed on a new DKK 27.4 billion plan to strengthen defence in the Arctic and North Atlantic. The agreement, signed under the 2024–2033 Defence Agreement, includes major investments in land, sea and air capabilities to improve operational effectiveness.
The Second Agreement on the Arctic and North Atlantic involves the acquisition of two additional Arctic vessels, a maritime patrol aircraft capability, a new headquarters for Joint Arctic Command, new drones, and the establishment of a North Atlantic undersea cable. These efforts aim to ensure the Danish Armed Forces have the necessary conditions to maintain a strong and effective presence in the region.
“We have this year significantly increased our defence presence in the Arctic including through a number of large national and international exercises. With this second agreement we significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Danish Armed Forces in the region, including maritime patrol aircraft capabilities and additional Arctic naval vessels,” said Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen.
The agreement also provides for a new military unit under Joint Arctic Command in Greenland, an Arctic unit with first responder capability under Special Operations Command, and an air surveillance radar in East Greenland. The investments are to be carried out in close cooperation with local authorities and in respect of the division of competences within the Kingdom of Denmark.
“I deeply appreciate the close cooperation, innovative inputs and good discussions with Greenland’s Naalakkersuisut and the Government of the Faroe Islands in reaching this agreement,” the Minister of Defence added. The initiative builds on previous agreements from January and July 2025 aimed at enhancing surveillance and supporting sovereignty in the Arctic and North Atlantic.