Denmark is deploying conscripts to Greenland for military exercises as it seeks to strengthen Arctic defence amid heightened security tensions in the region.
A company of Danish conscripts is being sent to the territory after completing six months of basic military training in Haderslev. The deployment forms part of Arctic Endurance, an exercise involving Danish and allied forces in and around Greenland.
The Danish Defence said the conscripts would carry out duties including guarding installations, specialist winter training and exercises alongside allied troops. Their presence is intended to supplement, rather than replace, professional Danish military personnel already taking part in the operation.
The soldiers are among the first to serve under Denmark’s expanded 11-month conscription system, which comprises five months of basic training followed by six months of operational service.
Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus said the new model was designed to prepare conscripts for operational duties, including in Greenland, and to improve Denmark’s ability to work in severe weather and difficult terrain.
Arctic Endurance began in January and is scheduled to continue throughout 2026. Denmark has said the exercise is being conducted in close coordination with Greenland’s government, Naalakkersuisut, and involves increased activity by aircraft, ships and troops.
Military personnel from several NATO countries, including France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, Iceland and Belgium, have taken part in planning or exercises connected with the operation.
The deployment reflects Denmark’s wider effort to expand its defence capabilities in the Arctic, where the country has responsibilities for the security of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
