Denmark Receives Four More F-35 Jets, Expanding Fighter Fleet and Defense Capabilities

Four advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter jets have successfully arrived at the Fighter Wing Skrydstrup facility in Denmark, marking a significant milestone in the country’s military modernization efforts. This latest delivery brings Denmark’s total F-35 count to eight, with an additional three jets expected to join the fleet in the coming months.

Colonel Kim Jensen, the commander at Skrydstrup, spoke about the implications of the new aircraft, stating that their arrival allows the facility to transition from basic training to more advanced operational exercises. “The arrival of more aircraft at Skrydstrup means that we can go from flying basic training to maintain the level we have learned in the US to now actually starting to train more people,” Jensen explained. He highlighted the importance of the training, saying, “At the same time, we can start training in larger scenarios, and we can start training more specifically in relation to what we will actually need the F-35 for in the future.”

The acquisition of these advanced fighter jets is part of Denmark’s broader efforts to enhance its defense capabilities. The nation has been gradually expanding its fighter jet fleet and significantly increasing military spending in recent years. Notably, in September 2023, Denmark took a crucial step by receiving its first four Lockheed Martin-made F-35s, intended to replace the aging fleet of F-16 fighters that have been in service since the 1980s. These older jets are set to be retired by 2027.

Earlier in the year, Denmark unveiled plans to boost its defense budget by 143 billion kroner, equivalent to approximately $20.5 billion, over the next decade. This substantial increase aims to modernize the military and enhance Denmark’s readiness in a rapidly changing security landscape. The delivery of the F-35s represents a significant advancement in the capabilities of the Royal Danish Air Force, aligning with the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and capable defense force.