Copenhagen, July 10 - Denmark is poised to bolster its military capabilities and strengthen its support for Ukraine through two significant defense initiatives: the acquisition of additional Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets and a coordinated effort to supply Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. These developments, announced by Denmark’s Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen, underscore the country’s commitment to enhancing its own security while reinforcing NATO’s collective defense and aiding Ukraine against Russian aggression. Denmark has already integrated the F-35A Lightning II into its air force, with 27 jets ordered to date. Of these, 15 have been delivered to Skrydstrup Air Base in southern Denmark, while six remain in the United States for training purposes, and six more are slated for delivery by the end of 2026.
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The decision to pursue at least 10 additional F-35s, with a potential deal expected by October 2025, reflects Denmark’s strategic intent to modernize its air fleet and maintain a robust defense posture. Poulsen emphasized the urgency of the acquisition, noting that discussions with the F-35 program office indicate an opportunity to accelerate deliveries if a decision is made swiftly. This move would increase Denmark’s F-35 fleet to approximately 40 aircraft, significantly enhancing its air combat capabilities. The financial commitment is substantial, described as costing “a very large amount of billions,” though specific figures remain undisclosed. The addition of these fifth-generation stealth fighters will ensure Denmark’s air force remains interoperable with NATO allies and capable of addressing evolving security challenges in the region.
Simultaneously, Denmark is playing a pivotal role in a European-led initiative to provide Ukraine with 10 Patriot air defense systems. This breakthrough, secured through negotiations involving the United States and several European nations, responds to Ukraine’s urgent requests for enhanced air defenses amid intensified Russian bombardment. The Patriot systems, known for their ability to intercept advanced threats like hypersonic missiles, are critical for protecting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Poulsen highlighted the importance of this effort, which aligns with broader NATO discussions and follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump at a NATO summit, where he signaled openness to supplying additional Patriots to Ukraine. Trump’s comments, made during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, suggested a potential shift from a pause in U.S. military aid, with a commitment to send more weapons to support Ukraine’s defense. Denmark’s leadership in coordinating this multinational effort underscores its growing role in European security cooperation.
These initiatives also reflect Denmark’s strategic alignment with NATO’s priorities, particularly in safeguarding critical supply routes for Ukraine. The Rzeszow-Jasionka airport in Poland, a key hub through which 90% of Western aid to Ukraine flows, is a focal point for NATO’s air defense efforts. Denmark’s contributions, alongside those of Norway and the Netherlands, which are deploying F-35s to patrol NATO airspace over Poland from September to December 2025, demonstrate a collective commitment to ensuring the safe delivery of military aid. Denmark’s dual focus on expanding its F-35 fleet and facilitating Patriot deliveries to Ukraine positions it as a key player in NATO’s response to regional security challenges, balancing national defense modernization with support for Ukraine’s resilience.