Danish navy’s Arctic capabilities fall short of NATO expectations

A recent report by Danish national broadcaster DR has revealed significant shortcomings in Denmark’s naval capabilities, particularly concerning anti-submarine warfare (ASW) in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions. The Danish fleet currently lacks the necessary equipment and readiness to effectively detect and counter potential threats from Russian submarines, failing to meet key NATO requirements.

The report highlights that the Royal Danish Navy’s frigates are not equipped with towed array sonar systems, a critical tool for ASW operations. This deficiency leaves Denmark ill-prepared to monitor and respond to submarine activity in strategically vital areas, such as the Greenland-Iceland-UK (GIUK) gap, a key maritime corridor for Russian naval movements.

Adding to these challenges, Denmark has two Absalon-class anti-submarine frigates, which, according to the recently signed Arctic Agreement, are set to play a more prominent role in the North Atlantic. However, multiple former senior Danish naval officers have cast doubt on their effectiveness, pointing out that they are aging, vulnerable to harsh Arctic weather conditions and limited in operational range—particularly during the winter months.

One of these voices is Carsten Fjord-Larsen, a flotilla admiral and former acting chief of the Royal Danish Navy (2022-2023), who previously commanded Absalon-class frigates.

“Absalon can carry out missions up there, but it will depend on the season and geography—and that is a significant limitation, because Russian submarines don’t move based on where Absalon can sail. So in my view, there will be a limitation. There’s hardly any doubt about that,” he said.

Denmark’s struggles to keep up with NATO commitments

Denmark has announced plans to enhance its military presence in the Arctic in response to these challenges. The government has committed nearly $2 billion to bolster surveillance and sovereignty in the region, including investments in new Arctic naval vessels, surveillance drones, and satellite capacity.

However, the strategic importance of the Arctic has grown beyond what Denmark’s current capabilities can handle. Climate change has opened new Arctic waters, leading to increased interest from global powers, including Russia and the United States. The GIUK gap has become a renewed focal point for NATO’s defense strategy, but Denmark’s inability to effectively patrol the area raises concerns about regional security and its role within the alliance.

A race against time

Denmark’s recent defense initiatives reflect an acknowledgment of its military shortcomings in the Arctic. But while investments have been promised, experts warn that implementing them in time to counter growing threats remains a challenge.

As geopolitical tensions in the Arctic continue to rise, Denmark’s ability to fulfill its NATO obligations and safeguard its territories will depend on how quickly it can modernize its naval forces and improve its readiness for anti-submarine warfare in the High North.

For now, the Royal Danish Navy is struggling to keep pace with shifting security demands, leaving a critical gap in NATO’s northern defenses.