Denmark has taken a major step forward in strengthening its national defense by receiving four additional F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, bringing its fleet total to fifteen. The delivery, which follows earlier delays due to the implementation of the Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) upgrade, marks a turning point for the Royal Danish Air Force as it transitions into a fifth-generation air power force. The arrival of the jets at Skrydstrup Air Base signals Denmark’s renewed commitment to its NATO obligations, defense modernization, and operational readiness in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
The four jets completed a transatlantic journey from Lockheed Martin’s U.S. facilities, stopping in the Azores before landing on Danish soil. Maj. Gen. Jan Dam, Commander of the Royal Danish Air Force, welcomed the aircraft with optimism: “With the arrival of the four aircraft yesterday, we have taken another step towards building up the combat capability of the F-35 aircraft.” His statement reflects not only progress in hardware delivery but also the growing sophistication of Denmark’s defense strategy.
Denmark’s path to acquiring the F-35 began in 2016, when the government committed nearly $3 billion to purchase 27 of the aircraft. The decision followed a competitive evaluation process to replace its aging F-16 Fighting Falcons, which have served since the 1980s. The F-35 was selected not just for its stealth and combat capabilities, but also for its interoperability with NATO forces and long-term cost efficiency in lifecycle maintenance.
The first four F-35s were delivered in 2023, initially stationed in the United States for training purposes. With the current batch of four, Denmark has received over half of its order. Full delivery is expected by 2027, coinciding with the planned retirement of the F-16 fleet.
The importance of this transition cannot be overstated. The F-16s, while reliable, are becoming increasingly obsolete in modern warfare. Their sensors, software, and airframe limits can no longer meet the demands posed by fifth-generation threats. By contrast, the F-35 Lightning II introduces a multirole platform that excels in air-to-air, air-to-ground, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
The F-35’s defining feature is its stealth capability. Built with radar-absorbing materials and a minimal radar cross-section, it is engineered to avoid detection and strike targets with precision. It can operate in “stealth mode” carrying up to four internal AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles or smart bombs like the GBU-31 JDAM. For higher-intensity missions, the jet switches to “beast mode,” loading up to fourteen weapons externally.
This flexibility enables Denmark to scale its response according to mission requirements. Whether intercepting hostile aircraft, delivering precision strikes, or performing ISR missions, the F-35 gives Danish pilots the tools to adapt rapidly.
Another standout feature is the F-35’s integrated logistics and data systems. Its Automatic Logistics Information System (ALIS), and the transitioning Operational Data Integrated Network (ODIN), manage everything from predictive maintenance to mission planning. These systems increase aircraft availability and reduce operational costs over time.
Denmark’s acquisition fits neatly into NATO’s strategic framework. As a member of the Joint Strike Fighter program, Denmark collaborates with eight other partner nations including Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. The program allows for cost sharing in research and development and ensures interoperability between allied air forces.
In Europe, where tensions with Russia continue to simmer—particularly since the invasion of Ukraine—NATO allies are racing to modernize. The F-35 plays a central role in this modernization. Countries like Norway, the UK, and Italy have already integrated the jet into their operational units. Denmark’s continued progress will enhance northern Europe’s collective deterrence posture.
Participation in the F-35 program also provides economic and technological benefits. Danish companies like Terma A/S contribute components and systems to the production chain. This industrial participation supports local jobs, technological innovation, and access to cutting-edge aerospace engineering.
Moreover, the integration of F-35s is stimulating the growth of Denmark’s military infrastructure. Upgrades at Skrydstrup Air Base, such as hardened shelters, advanced simulators, and secure communication systems, are underway. These projects not only bolster military capability but create demand for high-tech construction and services.
Despite its many benefits, the F-35 program has faced criticism over its cost and complexity. Technical delays—such as the recent bottleneck caused by TR-3 software updates—have fueled scrutiny. However, officials remain confident that the long-term payoff in security, deterrence, and interoperability justifies the investment.
Public opinion in Denmark has also evolved. While initial announcements of the F-35 purchase were met with skepticism due to budgetary concerns, the changing geopolitical climate has tilted sentiment in favor. Russia’s increased aggression, hybrid warfare tactics, and growing cyber threats have reshaped national defense priorities.
With the delivery pipeline moving again, Denmark is on track to fully integrate the F-35 by its target date of 2027. Pilots are undergoing extensive training, and support crews are becoming adept with the new systems. The goal is not just to replace old planes but to create a next-generation air force capable of executing missions across multiple domains.
By embedding advanced sensors, data fusion capabilities, and stealth into one platform, the F-35 acts as a force multiplier. It allows smaller nations like Denmark to punch above their weight in a joint coalition context.
In a world where air superiority often dictates the outcome of conflicts, Denmark’s investment signals a clear understanding: modern threats require modern solutions. The addition of four more F-35s may seem incremental, but strategically, it represents a decisive leap toward enhanced national and regional security.
