Conflict around possible American seizure of Greenland island only intensifies further. However, this doesn’t prevent issuing permits for selling Denmark weaponry, such as AGM-114R Hellfire II missiles and associated equipment for $45 million.
According to a published U.S. State Department permit document, Danes want to purchase up to one hundred missiles, three stationary test missiles, six M299 launchers, two MHU-191/M transport trailers, and three BRU-14 holders. This will also include logistics, support services, spare parts, technical documentation, and software.
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AGM-114 Hellfire missile launch from MH-60S Seahawk helicopter / Photo credit: U.S. Departament of War
The sale is stated to help advance American geopolitical interests and improve NATO security. This is very interesting considering the surrounding political situation around Greenland island, which supposedly needs to be surrendered for White House needs.
Worth noting here: so far most threats sound only verbally, without special practical changes in U.S. policy. Meanwhile, Denmark remains a long-time ally, so there is no need to refuse it weapons sales.
Installing AGM-114 Hellfire missile on MH-60B Seahawk helicopter / Photo credit: U.S. Departament of War
As a reminder, permission was recently given for maritime patrol and anti-submarine aircraft P-8A Poseidon, which will be needed precisely for Greenland defense. True, here it will more counter russian and Chinese submarines, ships, and vessels.
Regarding Hellfire II missiles, they’ll most likely be used by Denmark from helicopters specifically naval MH-60R Seahawks used by the country’s Navy. Since there are only 6 aircraft in service, a total of 100 purchased missiles makes sense.
Danish Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter / Photo credit: Danish Ministry of Defense
As a reminder, AGM-114R is a modern modification of this missile family, designated Hellfire Romeo and produced since 2012. It has semi-active laser guidance and is designed to engage targets at 8km distance. Overall, such weaponry is actively used by NATO countries and even Ukraine. In 2024, Czechia was approved to sell AGM-114R together with APKWS II for $138 million to equip newly-received AH-1Z Viper helicopters.
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