Denmark to purchase long-range precision weapons amid Russian threat

Thursday 18 September 2025 - 07:30

By: Sahili Aya

Denmark to purchase long-range precision weapons amid Russian threat

Denmark announced on Wednesday that it will acquire long-range precision weapons for the first time, citing Russia as a long-term threat to European security.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen told reporters in Copenhagen that “Russia will remain a threat to Denmark and Europe for many years.” She emphasized that the move represents a major shift in Danish defense policy, aimed at strengthening deterrence and NATO’s collective security.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen explained that the purchases would include drones and missiles similar to those already deployed or under acquisition by other NATO allies, although the specific models have not yet been determined. These weapons are intended to neutralize missile launch sites, air defense systems, and drone infrastructure at significant distances.

Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen noted that the initiative aligns with NATO’s ambition for Europe to be capable of defending itself by 2030.

Russia’s ambassador to Denmark, Vladimir Barbin, condemned the decision, calling it “pure madness” and warning that Copenhagen was preparing for direct military confrontation with a nuclear power. Prime Minister Frederiksen dismissed the remarks as intimidation tactics, asserting that Denmark and its allies would not be deterred from defending their populations and borders.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Denmark has steadily expanded its military capabilities. Just last week, Copenhagen confirmed the purchase of eight long- and medium-range air defense systems from European manufacturers, underscoring its ongoing rearmament strategy.