Denmark to Boost Special Forces, Air Defense with $535M Defense Push

Denmark is rapidly expanding its military capabilities with a $535 million (DKK 3.4 billion) defense initiative aimed at special operations forces, ground-based air defense, and conscription reforms.

The move was approved by Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen on recommendations from Chief of Defense Michael Wiggers Hyldgaard.

Over $157 million (DKK 1.027 billion) will equip the Special Operations Command, including Jægerkorpset and Frømandskorpset, boosting combat power for national and regional missions. Another $42 million (DKK 272 million) will accelerate recruitment for ground-based air defense following recent acquisitions of medium- and long-range systems. Conscription reforms receive $20 million (DKK 132 million), while roughly $316 million (DKK 2 billion) supports drones, F-35 electronic protection, procurement, and defense company guarantees.

“The boost to special operations allows new operational squadrons, adding depth, breadth, and specialized combat power,” Hyldgaard said. Poulsen added that faster recruitment ensures personnel capacity keeps pace with the country’s expanded defense capabilities.