NATO

Since 1949, NATO has been the cornerstone of Danish Security and Defence Policy. NATO directly guarantees the security and independence of Denmark. Organisations such as NATO, UN, EU and OSCE has been the central framework through which Denmark has safeguarded security political interests and promoted peace, security and respect for human rights.

Denmark’s contributions to NATO

Denmark is an active and engaged NATO ally and contributes to NATO’s deterrence efforts and reaffirmation initiatives in the Baltic Sea and the Baltic States, among other things in the form of substantial military contributions to NATO’s advanced presence in the Baltic States. 

In February 2026, NATO launched its enhanced vigilance activity Arctic Sentry to demonstrate NATO’s resolve and ability to deter and monitor in the northern parts of NATO’s area of responsibility. Multiple allies participate in Arctic Sentry, including Denmark. 

Read more about NATO’s role in Arctic here: Arctic security | NATO Topic

The Danish Defence Command has in recent years increased its presence with NATO and Allies in the Arctic and High North, particularly in and around Greenland, through exercises such as Arctic Shield, Arctic Summer and Arctic Endurance. Future Danish-led exercises in the region will be executed within the framework of Arctic Endurance, which is a part of NATO’s Arctic Sentry.