Denmark increases military presence in Greenland amid rising Arctic tensions

By Elías Thorsson June 6, 2025
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Vivian Motzfeldt, Naalakkersuisut’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Research and Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen. (Naalakkersuisut)

In a strategic move to bolster Arctic security, Denmark has announced a significant increase in military activities in and around Greenland over the coming months. This initiative aims to strengthen the Danish Armed Forces’ operational capabilities in the Arctic and support the safety and security of the Greenlandic population. This is according to a statement from the Greenlandic parliament Naalakkersuisut.

Key Initiatives

The Danish Ministry of Defence, in close collaboration with Naalakkersuisut, has outlined several measures to enhance military readiness:

  • Winter training and exercises: Special operations forces will conduct winter training and exercises focusing on critical infrastructure.

  • Helicopter deployment: Two EH-101 helicopters will be stationed to support various operational tasks.

  • Frigate deployment: A frigate will be deployed to strengthen maritime operations in the region.

  • Land-based security: Students from the Arctic Basic Education program will participate in land-based security operations to protect critical infrastructure.

  • F-16 fighter jets: Deployment of F-16 fighter jets to Kangerlussuaq, with patrols along Greenland’s west coast.

These initiatives are designed to enhance Denmark’s ability to operate effectively in the Arctic environment and to contribute to the overall security of the Kingdom of Denmark.

Local engagement and environmental considerations

Naalakkersuisut has been actively involved in planning these initiatives to ensure local engagement and consideration of environmental factors, such as hunting seasons and breeding periods. Vivian Motzfeldt, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Research, emphasized the importance of local involvement to strengthen the nation’s contribution to its security.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted the priority of enhancing Arctic security and expressed appreciation for the close cooperation with Naalakkersuisut. He noted that the increased military presence would be mindful of local conditions and specific security challenges in Greenland.

As part of these efforts, public events such as an open frigate in Nuuk and an open hangar in Kangerlussuaq will be organized. These events aim to allow Greenlandic residents to engage with the Armed Forces and learn about their capabilities.