The Danish Defence Conciliation Circle has given the green light for the construction of five Arctic patrol vessels aimed at bolstering Denmark’s surveillance and operational capabilities in Greenland’s waters. The decision reflects an increasing focus on Arctic security amid changing geopolitical dynamics.
The new vessels are set to be manufactured across various production sites throughout Denmark and will be assembled in Frederikshavn, located in North Jutland. Under the approved plan, the assembly facility will remain under state ownership and is designed with the future in mind, allowing for the construction of larger vessels down the line.
This construction approach emerges from a review conducted by Deloitte, which identified a distributed production model as the most cost-effective strategy. This model is anticipated to enhance domestic industrial involvement, benefiting the local economy while ensuring the vessels are built to high standards.
The new Arctic patrol ships are expected to be operational by 2030, replacing the aging fleet comprising the Thetis and Knud Rasmussen-class vessels. These older ships have faced repeated mechanical issues, which have compromised Denmark’s ability to conduct effective Arctic surveillance and search-and-rescue missions.
Denmark’s Minister of Defense, Troels Lund Poulsen, expressed pride in the nation’s maritime heritage, emphasizing that this construction directive strengthens Denmark’s position in the shipbuilding sector. He highlighted the benefits of utilizing multiple Danish production facilities in conjunction with the assembly plant in Frederikshavn, ultimately enhancing Denmark’s long-term security of supply.
While the specific manufacturer for the new vessels has not yet been finalized, local reports suggest that a consortium led by Danske Flådeskibe — which includes companies like Terma, Odense Maritime Technology, PensionDanmark, and Semco Maritime — may be in line to secure the contract. This consortium has previously been awarded 490 million Danish kroner (approximately $78 million) from the Ministry of Defence to develop patrol ships tailored for the Danish Navy, which have since been adapted for Arctic operations.
This latest initiative comes amid criticisms that Denmark has been slow to address the outdated Arctic fleet, concerns that have been compounded by heightened awareness and warnings surrounding security in the region, notably reflecting sentiments voiced by international leaders regarding Greenland’s strategic importance.
