Full Breakdown
Denmark Procures Long-Range Missiles Amid Russian Tensions
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Core Decision and Procurement Details
On Oct 22, Denmark announced the acquisition of two long-range precision missile systems: the Joint Strike Missile from Norway’s Kongsberg Gruppen ASA, intended for launch from the nation’s F-35 fighter jets, and the Anthem cruise missile from U.S. firm Covenant, which will be ground-launched. The government described the purchase as a “paradigm shift” in defence policy and indicated that the overall spend will run into billions of kroner. Neither the quantity of missiles nor the contract value was disclosed. The procurement follows a September 2025 decision by the coalition of the Social Democrats, the Liberal Party and the Moderates, and it complements Denmark’s ongoing expansion of its F-35 fleet, now projected at 43 aircraft.
Background and Strategic Context
Denmark’s move comes after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which prompted a sharp increase in Danish defence spending and a broader NATO emphasis on deterrence. Earlier in 2025, the government announced plans to add longer-range missiles and drones to its arsenal, a step Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called a “paradigm shift” for a country that had previously focused on defensive weapons. The stated aim is to strengthen both national and collective deterrence against an increasingly aggressive Russian posture toward Europe.
Official Statements & Responses
He emphasized that, as a member of the world’s strongest defence alliance, Denmark must be prepared for an “increased threat” and be able to respond accordingly. Prime Minister Frederiksen reiterated that credible deterrence requires capabilities beyond air defence alone. The Russian embassy in Copenhagen condemned the policy, describing it as a dangerous illusion that seeks confrontation with Moscow and warning of “inevitable disastrous consequences.”
Criticism & Opposition
Russian Ambassador Vladimir Barbin accused Denmark of pursuing a political course aimed at possible conflict with Russia, labeling the missile purchase a reckless policy that could lead to catastrophic outcomes. Within Denmark, the Red-Green Alliance, the Alternative and the Citizens’ Party were the only parties outside the cross-party agreement supporting the acquisition, indicating limited domestic dissent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are facing a security situation where no one can predict what will happen tomorrow,” — Jeppe Bruus, danish defence minister
- “Copenhagen is gripped by the dangerous illusion that buying offensive long-range precision weapons, intended to pose a military threat to a nuclear power, will strengthen Denmark’s security,” — Russian Ambassador Vladimir Barbin
- “It’s about giving the armed forces the right tools in the toolbox. And it is a significant step toward increasing our ability to strike back,” — Jeppe Bruus, danish defence minister
- “I understand that, but we are in the world’s strongest defense alliance, and we have to recognize that there is an increased threat, and we have to be able to respond.” — Jeppe Bruus, danish defence minister
- “We must be able to credibly deter attacks on Denmark and NATO, and for that it is not enough to have a strong air defense,” — Mette Frederiksen, prime minister