CUI Protection A Key Element Of New Danish Naval Plans

Protection of critical undersea infrastructure (CUI) and investment in drones and new frigates are among the standout features of Denmark’s future naval plans, as recently unveiled by its Ministry of Defence.

The Danish Government is following a twin-tracked approach, outlining both urgent procurement items and a longer-term acquisition strategy.

In a recent press statement Minister of Defence Troels Lund Poulsen explained: “The naval battlefield is characterized by a more complex risk and threat picture than before, rapid technological development, and a Russia that has become more willing to escalate its course towards the West.

“Therefore, with the naval plan, we are initiating several urgent acquisitions that address specific challenges and threats that we face now and in the coming years.”

First in line will be “new equipment to monitor critical infrastructure under the sea, as well as to initiate a development programme for drones and other unmanned units that will strengthen the Navy both now and in the long term.”

The statement noted: “There are many pipelines and cables in Danish waters that transport electricity, gas and data. This makes Denmark vulnerable to sabotage.

“The government plans to acquire a capacity consisting of a ship as well as drones and sonar systems that can monitor and identify unwanted activity underwater.”

The Government also announced it will invest in new air defence frigates, which it described as “the backbone of the Danish Navy.” The new Royal Danish Navy vessels will enhance Danish maritime combat power in the Arctic and the North Atlantic.

The next generation of frigates will replace their three Iver Huitfelt-class ships, which it intends to operate for another decade. The plan also takes in the three Arctic ships the government has already decided to acquire to strengthen capabilities in this increasingly important sea area; it also plans to explore possible partnerships with other nations to enhance its icebreaker capacity. 

And in addition to 21 new vessels for the Home Guard, the government also plans to acquire “four new marine environment ships, which can also be used militarily for both maritime surveillance and mine laying.”

These four hybrid vessels will also be tasked with combatting oil and chemical spills.

• You can read more details on the Danish Ministry of Defence website