The plan prioritises new undersea autonomous systems.

Denmark will urgently acquire new maritime capabilities to strengthen its naval forces under a newly unveiled DKK4 billion (USD608 million) plan.

The ‘Navy Plan’, published on 22 April, stipulates an urgent requirement to acquire a broad range of maritime capabilities, including 21 new vessels for the Marine Home Guard, which will support the Royal Danish Navy with maritime surveillance, and four military “marine environment and mine-laying vessels”.

A new undersea surveillance capability for protecting critical infrastructure will also be acquired, comprising a seaborne vessel, undersea drones and sonar systems to monitor and identify unauthorised activity.

In addition, the military aims to launch a new programme to test and develop autonomous systems, such as undersea drones, to expand the surveillance capabilities of the navy.

The government has allocated around DKK4 billion for the acquisitions, financed with funds from the Acceleration Fund and the Danish Defence Agreement, the plan detailed.

A decision on new larger naval vessels such as frigates and additional Arctic vessels will be decided in an upcoming ‘partial agreement’, the plan added.

Due to the deteriorating geopolitical environment, Denmark is accelerating efforts to modernise its military. 

In February, the country announced a new DKK50 billion (USD7.2 billion) defence acceleration fund, spanning between 2025-2026, to accelerate its armament efforts and bring defence spending above 3% of GDP.

Another defence spending package was also announced that same week, earmarking an additional DKK70 billion (USD9.8 billion) in the 2027-2033 period to modernise its military.

Along with building up its ground forces and air defence systems, Denmark is channelling investment towards its navy. Earlier this year, Denmark revealed it was reorientating its Arctic patrol vessel programme to take on a more offensive role, rather than a multifunctional one. This involves adding enhanced air and surface warfare capabilities and an advanced sensor suite. Four vessels are being acquired, built by Danske Flådeskibe K/S.

In addition, the navy has initiated a programme to begin replacing its Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates. Denmark is also exploring the possibility of jointly acquiring new icebreaker capabilities with its allies.