Denmark Defence: Denmark has announced plans to enhance its military by joining a European-led air refueling program. The decision, revealed on March 25, 2025, involves an investment of approximately 7.4 billion Danish kroner ($1.1 billion) between 2025 and 2033 to acquire two Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport) aircraft. This move is seen as a critical step in bolstering Denmark’s air defense capabilities while reducing reliance on US military support.
The initiative follows recommendations by Danish Chief of Defence, Gen. Michael Hyldgaard, who proposed that Denmark initially participate in the Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport Fleet by purchasing refueling flight hours before securing a permanent share in the pooled fleet. This multinational program, which currently includes six European nations, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Germany, Norway, Belgium, and Czechia addresses NATO’s long-standing shortage of air-to-air refueling capacity, reported Republic World.
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The A330 MRTT, stationed primarily in Eindhoven, Netherlands, and Cologne, Germany, is a highly versatile aircraft capable of carrying 110 metric tons of fuel while also serving as a transport for passengers and cargo. Its ability to refuel a wide range of aircraft, including Denmark’s F-16 and F-35 fighter jets, makes it an essential asset for NATO operations, particularly in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions where Denmark frequently conducts missions.
Reducing Dependence on US Military Support
Denmark’s decision reflects growing concerns over Europe’s reliance on U.S. military assets as Washington shifts its strategic focus away from the region. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that it would significantly enhance the operational reach and endurance of Denmark’s air force, particularly in remote areas like the Arctic.
The move aligns with broader European efforts to achieve greater defense autonomy. Germany currently leads in flight hour usage within the multinational fleet, followed by Belgium and the Netherlands. Denmark’s participation is expected to strengthen Nordic defense cooperation while ensuring more efficient use of shared resources.
Push for Military Modernization
This refueling initiative is part of a larger defense strategy that includes a substantial increase in military spending. In February 2025, the Danish government committed an additional 50 billion kroner to defense over the next two years, raising its budget to over 3% of GDP. These funds will accelerate the transformation of the Danish Army’s 1st Brigade into a heavy brigade by 2028, several years ahead of schedule.
more investments are being made in air defense infrastructure, including the establishment of a new air defense wing at Flyvestation Skalstrup. Denmark is evaluating multiple air defense systems, such as the French-Italian SAMP/T and U.S. Patriot for high-level threats, alongside more cost-effective options like MBDA’s VL MICA and Kongsberg’s NASAMS for lower-tier threats.
