Denmark announced plans to acquire two long-range missile types: Kongsberg’s Joint Strike Missile for F-35 aircraft and Covenant’s ground-launched Anthem. Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus presented the purchases as strengthening Denmark’s ability to respond to an attack. The government has not disclosed quantities, costs or a delivery schedule for the new capability.
Denmark announced plans on October 22 to buy two types of long-range precision missiles. Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus identified the Joint Strike Missile from Norwegian manufacturer Kongsberg for F-35 aircraft, and the ground-launched Anthem from US company Covenant. The choices give the procurement programme separate air and ground roles. Bruus said the purchases would strengthen Denmark’s ability to respond if it were attacked.[1], [2]
Kongsberg’s missile can be carried inside the F-35A, preserving the aircraft’s low-observable profile. The company said negotiations with Denmark would determine the scope and value of its package. Denmark is working towards a fleet of 43 F-35s after committing last year to buy another 16 aircraft. Covenant publicly unveiled its Anthem cruise missile in September. Copenhagen has disclosed no missile quantities, combined purchase cost or delivery timetable.[1]
The defence ministry said the acquisitions followed the defence chief’s recommendation. Denmark had already announced its intention to acquire long-range weapons in response to what it regarded as a Russian threat. Asked whether the purchases could make the country a bigger target for Russia, Bruus said Denmark needed to respond to an increased threat. Russia’s embassy in Copenhagen objected and characterised the policy as a move towards possible conflict with Moscow.[1]
