A key objective is to significantly expand the number of operational crews by 2033, while also reinforcing maintenance structures and training systems. The initiatives also include learning from international partners to improve competencies, particularly in anti-submarine warfare.
“One way to create increased combat power is by getting more out of the capabilities we already have,” said Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen. “The Seahawk helicopters are a vital capability in the Armed Forces’ operations across the entire Kingdom, and I am therefore pleased that with more mechanics, funding for additional crews and flight hours, and a new hangar facility in the Faroe Islands, we can get even more out of our Seahawks.”
The maintenance structure will be strengthened with the addition of 27 aircraft mechanics by 2027. This increase is intended to support more flight hours and thereby improve the operational effectiveness and combat capability of the Danish Armed Forces.
Seahawk crews will also be stationed abroad to further develop skills and gain experience in anti-submarine warfare. This deployment aims to strengthen Denmark’s expertise in maritime defence operations.
“It is crucial that we strengthen our Seahawk capacity,” said Major General Jan Dam, Commander of the Royal Danish Air Force. “As the Armed Forces’ maritime helicopter, it is central to our ability to deliver combat power at sea – both in terms of surveillance, sovereignty enforcement, and anti-submarine warfare. It is therefore positive that we are now, among other things, increasing the number of aircraft mechanics, who are absolutely essential to keeping the helicopters flying and securing more flight hours.”
To support the anti-submarine mission, a new permanent hangar will be built at Vágar in the Faroe Islands. The current hangar will be dismantled in 2027 as part of the airport’s redevelopment, and the new facility will represent a significant improvement in the Armed Forces’ infrastructure for submarine operations.
The initiatives follow recommendations from the Chief of Defence, with approximately DKK 304 million allocated from the Accelerationsfonden to fund the efforts.
