COPENHAGEN: Amid escalating tensions with the United States over Greenland, Denmark has intensified its military preparedness in the Arctic. On Friday, two Danish F-35 fighter jets conducted a training mission over southeastern Greenland, accompanied by a French MRTT (Multi-Role Tanker Transport) aircraft.
The exercise comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has been pressing for American control over Greenland, citing the island’s strategic importance for national security and its role in the “Golden Dome Defense System.” Trump has even hinted that the US could use military force or impose tariffs on countries that oppose American claims over Greenland.
Training Objectives and Flight Path
The Danish military stated that the joint mission aimed to practice long-range flights, aerial refueling, and joint operations in challenging Arctic conditions. According to media reports, the aircraft departed from Skydstrup Air Base, flying directly over Greenland’s eastern coast near Kulusuk, before returning. The flight path also crossed the Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic, highlighting the strategic reach of the mission.
The French tanker aircraft flew from its base in southern France, supporting the F-35s throughout the exercise and ensuring mid-air refueling capabilities for extended operations.
A Firm Message Amid US Pressure
Denmark’s mission underscores its commitment to maintaining sovereignty over Greenland despite increasing US pressure. Earlier this week, Trump threatened tariffs against countries that do not support American control over Greenland, marking the first time he publicly linked economic penalties to the island’s strategic governance.
In response, Denmark announced plans to establish a larger and more permanent NATO presence on Greenland, emphasizing the island’s security and strategic importance while signaling that Danish sovereignty will be robustly defended.
The joint Danish-French operation over Greenland sends a clear message that European nations are prepared to safeguard their interests in the Arctic, even as tensions with the United States continue to mount.
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