Denmark will invest approximately 4 billion Danish crowns ($614 million) to build and acquire 26 naval vessels focused on patrol, oil spill response, and the surveillance of undersea infrastructure, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced on Tuesday.
The decision comes amid heightened security concerns in the Baltic Sea region following multiple disruptions to power cables, telecommunications links, and gas pipelines since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Among the most notable incidents was the sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines—events for which Russia has denied responsibility.
In response to these threats, NATO has significantly increased its presence in the area with frigates, aircraft, and naval drones. A particular concern has been Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet”—vessels allegedly used to covertly transport oil, weapons, and grain in violation of international sanctions.
“The threats we face at sea today are more serious and complex than just a few years ago,” said Minister Poulsen. “We must respond to an increasingly aggressive Russia, while keeping pace with rapid technological developments.”
He added that the new naval plan marks the beginning of a series of urgent procurements designed to enhance Denmark’s maritime defense capabilities.
After years of defense budget cuts, Denmark reversed course in 2023, committing 190 billion crowns over a decade to modernize its armed forces. The latest naval investment focuses on safeguarding critical undersea infrastructure, including energy cables and pipelines, and strengthening environmental protection in Danish waters.
In addition to the 26 vessels, the Danish military will procure drones and sonar systems to detect and monitor underwater threats. The government also expressed a preference for building many of the new vessels domestically, potentially in partnership with NATO allies, though specific plans were not disclosed.
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