Denmark allocates $330 million to enhance anti-drone capabilities

The Danish Defence Ministry has approved funding of 2.1 billion kroner (approximately $330 million) to develop resources aimed at tracking and neutralising drones.

The decision follows a proposal from the Commander-in-Chief of Denmark’s Armed Forces, the ministry said in a press release, as per Russian media.

Between 2025 and 2033, a total of 3.8 billion kroner ($590 million) is planned for reserves and new defence initiatives. In light of the current security environment, the Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief recommended the acquisition of counter-drone systems along with an artificial intelligence-based decision support platform.

“Recent drone incidents have highlighted the urgent need for the Danish Armed Forces to enhance their UAV countermeasure capabilities. I am pleased that Denmark is committing substantial funds to strengthen these resources. These acquisitions demonstrate Denmark’s commitment to countering hybrid threats,” said Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.

In late September, Denmark reported sightings of unidentified drones near several military installations, including Karup Air Base, Skridstrup Air Base, and Holstebro Barracks, as well as over multiple civilian airports. During the EU summit from September 29 to October 3, the kingdom’s airspace was temporarily closed to civilian drones.

Allied support bolstered Denmark’s defences: the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, and Poland deployed anti-UAV assets; Germany sent around 40 troops to monitor, detect, and protect Copenhagen; France contributed a Fennec military helicopter and a team of 35 specialists; Sweden provided Counter-UAS systems and radars; and NATO supplied additional drone countermeasure equipment.

By Tamilla Hasanova