Denmark has deployed its advanced F-35A stealth fighter jets over Greenland. The mission was supported by a French aerial refuelling tanker. The Danish Armed Forces describe it as a training exercise. The flights take place amid a tense standoff over the Arctic island. They highlight the strategic importance of Greenland in global military and political matters.
Stealth Fighters Take Flight Over Greenland
On 16 January, two Danish F-35A jets flew over the rugged east coast of Greenland near Kulusuk. The operation included a midair refuelling stop. This was provided by a French Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT). The tanker took off from southern France and returned after completing the mission.
The Danish military said the flight was part of routine training exercises. The drills were designed to practice joint operations, aerial refuelling, and long-distance flights in harsh Arctic conditions. The mission also included a flyby of the Faroe Islands. These islands are another autonomous Danish territory in the North Atlantic.
The Danish Armed Forces shared images and video of the jets in action. They showed the F-35A stealth fighters navigating Greenland’s extreme winter weather. The Danish Air Force has recently retired its older F-16 fighters. It now relies on the F-35A as its main frontline aircraft. The latest sortie is one of the first Arctic missions for the F-35A. It demonstrates the jet’s ability to operate in challenging environments.
Denmark noted that similar flights with French tanker support were conducted along Greenland’s west coast last year using F-16s. This year’s deployment, however, reflects an upgraded and modernized Arctic capability with the newer stealth fighters.
Operation Arctic Endurance Strengthens Danish and NATO Presence
The F-35 mission is part of a wider military campaign known as Operation Arctic Endurance, launched by Denmark on 15 January. This operation involves a series of drills across Greenland, aimed at testing troop mobility, aerial operations, and survival in Arctic conditions. Danish personnel arrived by transport aircraft, and initial exercises have focused on key locations including the capital Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq on Greenland’s west coast.
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Denmark has called on NATO allies to participate in the operation. France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom have all pledged troops. Reconnaissance and planning teams from these countries have already visited Greenland to assess logistics and operational challenges in the Arctic winter.
In addition to the F-35 flights, Denmark plans to continue deploying fighter jets and transport aircraft throughout the exercise period. A Royal Danish Air Force C-130J transport plane arrived in Nuuk on 14 January carrying troops for the drills, demonstrating the scale and seriousness of the operation. The exercises highlight Denmark’s determination to maintain control over Greenland’s airspace and prepare for potential threats in the Arctic.
Tensions Rise Amid Transatlantic Disputes
The Arctic deployment comes at a time of heightened tension. Denmark, Greenland, and other global powers all have interest in the region. The United States has repeatedly signaled its desire to gain greater influence over Greenland. It cites security concerns and the possible presence of foreign powers in the Arctic. Denmark and European allies have strongly pushed back against these statements.
Denmark’s military build-up is seen as a direct response to international pressure. Its goal is to secure Greenland and reaffirm national sovereignty. The Danish exercises include joint operations with allied nations. They aim to show readiness and interoperability in challenging Arctic conditions.
The situation has drawn diplomatic attention at global forums. Leaders from participating nations have gathered at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. Discussions about the Arctic situation are ongoing. The deployment of F-35As, supported by allied forces, highlights Greenland’s strategic importance in global security.
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Canadian officials have expressed support for Denmark and Greenland. They emphasize the importance of self-determination for the island territory. The Arctic military exercises have also affected international defense contracts. Countries are reconsidering reliance on specific suppliers amid geopolitical tensions.
The Danish F-35A flights and Operation Arctic Endurance send a clear signal. Greenland remains a key priority for Denmark and its NATO allies. The exercises test readiness, strengthen alliances, and maintain a visible presence in one of the world’s most challenging military environments.