The Danish Defence will increase its presence in Greenland and the Arctic this summer to conduct operational exercises in the High North and bolster emergency preparedness. The move, announced by the Greenlandic Government (Naalakkersuisut), aims to enhance security in the region amid evolving security concerns.

Special operations forces will engage in winter training, and F-16 fighter jets will be stationed at Kangerlussuaq Airport to patrol Greenland’s west coast. This deployment underscores the commitment to maintaining vigilance and responsiveness in the Arctic.

Two helicopters will be deployed to support operational tasks, further enhancing the Defence’s capabilities in the region. A frigate will also be dispatched north to assist with maritime operations.

Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized the importance of strengthening security in the Arctic and highlighted the close collaboration with Naalakkisut. The Defence’s activities will be conducted with consideration for local conditions and the unique security challenges present in Greenland.

Furthermore, students from the Arctic Basic Education program will participate in reinforcing land guarding of critical infrastructure.

The Defence intends to engage with the local population by hosting events to provide insights into its operations. These initiatives include inviting Greenlanders aboard Danish warships to showcase the crew’s daily life and foster transparency.