Denmark is accelerating the construction of its heavy brigade, allocating DKK 3.5 billion to expedite the process and aiming for completion two years ahead of the original 2032 target. The move is driven by the changed security policy reality in Europe and the need to bolster national defense and collective deterrence.

The advancements are being made across various capabilities, with some being accelerated by approximately two years and others by around five years. The allocated funds will be drawn from the Acceleration Fund, which holds DKK 50 billion for the years 2025-2026.

Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen stated that the build-up of the Armed Forces’ combat power is being turbo-charged. The advancements of the procurements for the heavy brigade take place on the recommendation of the Chief of Defense.

Specifically, DKK 1.4 billion is designated for stockpiling ammunition, DKK 0.8 billion for sanitation, and DKK 1.25 billion for digital command capacity, electronic warfare, and armored personnel carriers.

Brigadier General Michael Thøgersen, head of the 1st Brigade, welcomed the accelerated timeline, stating that the earlier provision of ammunition and additional capabilities will strengthen their ability to practice, develop, and operate as a heavy brigade with high combat power.

The construction of the brigade has faced previous postponements and promises of early completion. A brigade, the largest military unit in the Danish defense, comprises soldiers, tanks, weapons, and vehicles prepared for deployment within weeks.

This brigade is a long-standing NATO requirement and a crucial element of Denmark’s commitment to collective defense contributions. As recently as three months ago, the Minister of Defense announced bringing the construction forward three to five years.