Denmark has recently unveiled a comprehensive fleet plan aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Royal Danish Navy (RDN). This strategy encompasses both immediate measures to bolster key operational capacities and long-term initiatives focused on modernizing major surface combatants.
Short-Term Initiatives
In the immediate future, the plan emphasizes strengthening the RDN's ability to execute missions within Danish territorial waters. Key areas of focus include pollution control, mine warfare, patrol duties, and the surveillance of critical underwater infrastructure. To achieve these objectives, the plan outlines the acquisition of five larger vessels across two distinct classes and the replacement of the Marinehjemmeværnet’s (Naval Home Guard) primary patrol craft, the MHV 800-class.
The MHV 800-class, a conventional design weighing 83 tons, comprises 18 units distributed nationwide, ensuring a local naval presence in areas that might otherwise lack such visibility. This class also features the extended MHV 850-subclass, including the MHV851 Sabotøren, which is slated for replacement. In total, 21 new patrol craft will be procured to provide the force with modern platforms.
Among the five larger vessels, one will serve as a dedicated patrol vessel tasked with protecting underwater infrastructure. This role will be supported by significant investments in sensors and underwater drones. To advance unmanned capabilities, a development program for naval unmanned systems is set to launch, addressing both short-term and long-term goals.
The remaining four vessels will be multi-purpose designs, primarily aimed at replacing the RDN's aging pollution control vessels. Recent concerns about environmental risks, highlighted by the increased use of older, often poorly maintained tankers, have underscored the need for modernized oil and chemical spill recovery capabilities. These new vessels will also be equipped to perform additional naval tasks, including patrol duties, surveillance of underwater infrastructure, and minelaying operations. Minister for Resilience and Preparedness, Torsten Schack Pedersen, emphasized the versatility of these ships, describing them as "maritime environmental and minelaying ships."
Long-Term Vision: New Frigates
Looking ahead, the fleet plan envisions replacing the RDN's current frigates, starting with the air-defense-focused Iver Huitfeldt-class, which are expected to remain in service for another decade. Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen highlighted the importance of timely planning for these future acquisitions. The possibility of constructing the new vessels domestically or ensuring a significant Danish workshare is under consideration to enhance security of supply.
Additionally, the long-term strategy includes the procurement of a second batch of Arctic patrol vessels and explores potential collaborations with other nations to develop a shared icebreaking capacity. These initiatives reflect Denmark's commitment to maintaining a robust and versatile naval force capable of addressing evolving security challenges.
This comprehensive fleet plan underscores Denmark's proactive approach to modernizing its naval capabilities, ensuring readiness to safeguard national interests and contribute effectively to regional and international maritime security.
