Denmark has finalized a significant contract with Lockheed Martin, purchasing air surveillance radars valued at approximately $610 million. This sole-sourced agreement, which underscores the nation’s commitment to enhancing its national security, involves the acquisition of three TPY-4 fixed air defense radars. The deal was facilitated by the Danish Ministry of Defense Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO) in December 2024, with the option to acquire a fourth radar.
The radars will be strategically placed across Denmark, including in Skagen, located at the northernmost point of the country, Bornholm, situated in the Baltic Sea, the Faroe Islands, and potentially in eastern Greenland. This deployment aims to bolster Denmark’s aerial surveillance capabilities, particularly in regions that have seen limited monitoring. Greenland, known for its isolation and sparse population, remains a critical area for enhanced surveillance efforts.
According to a notice published on January 20, 2025, in the Tenders Electronics Daily, a public procurement platform affiliated with the European Union, DALO stated that the contract was awarded directly to Lockheed Martin to protect Denmark’s essential security interests. The notice emphasized that these radars are a core component of the country’s air defense system, highlighting their essential role in maintaining national security.
Tensions between Denmark and the United States have been a backdrop to this deal, particularly following former President Donald Trump’s controversial interest in acquiring Greenland. During a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on January 21, 2025, Trump clarified that he does not plan to use military action to pursue this aim. The radar deal could serve to reinforce Denmark’s position in this ongoing dialogue.
Denmark is not alone in recognizing the value of Lockheed Martin’s TPY-4 radar systems. Several Nordic countries have also opted to enhance their defenses with these advanced units. Sweden placed an order for an undisclosed number of TPY-4 radars in June 2025, while Norway expanded its fleet in 2024, bringing its total to 11 operational units.
As Denmark moves forward with this contract, the implications for regional security and defense capabilities are significant. The acquisition of advanced radar technology not only supports Denmark’s national interests but also aligns with broader security cooperation among Nordic nations. This deal marks a pivotal step in enhancing Denmark’s defense infrastructure and overall security posture in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
