Denmark buys long-range missiles / Moscow warns of “disastrous” consequences

Denmark, a NATO member state, has agreed to purchase its first long-range precision missiles amid the deteriorating security situation in Europe and the military threat posed by Russia. The decision was announced Thursday by Danish Defense Minister Jeppe Bruus and was condemned by Moscow.

Copenhagen will buy “Anthem” missiles, produced in Germany by the U.S. company Covenant, as well as JSM (Joint Strike Missile) missiles manufactured by the Norwegian company Kongsberg. They will also be used by Denmark’s F-35 fighter jets. The authorities did not specify the number of missiles ordered or the value of the contract.

The defense minister said the new systems would expand the country’s military capabilities and enable strikes “behind enemy lines” in the event of an attack. He justified the purchase by the need to strengthen defense and deter Russian aggression.

Denmark announced its intention to purchase long-range offensive weaponry as early as last year, after years of budget cuts in the defense sector. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen then called on the military to accelerate the acquisition of military equipment amid the war launched by Russia in Ukraine.

The Russian Embassy in Copenhagen accused Denmark of seeking confrontation with Moscow and warned of “inevitable disastrous consequences.” European allies are thus strengthening their military capabilities as part of NATO’s strategic shift.