National Role
Every day of the year, the Danish Armed Forces solve a wide range of tasks in Denmark, thus contributing to a well-functioning and safe society.
A sailing ship with a broken mast is rescued by the crew of the frigate Absalon. Photo: Henrik Wallstrøm
The frigate Niels Juel in Greenland in 2020. Photo: Danish Defence.
The national tasks of the Danish Defence include:
- Monitoring Danish waters and airspace
- Sovereignty enforcement
- Search and rescue operations at sea
- Evacuation of people in need of medical support from vessels and small islands
- Ammunition-clearing
- Marine-environment tasks
- Support for the royal family
- Several different forms of support for the police - including guard tasks, border control, air surveillance, and support during emergency situations
- Support for the civilian society with off-road vehicles during inclement weather
The Danish Armed Forces form part of society's overall emergency readiness (the so-called total-defence concept), which is activated during crises, disasters, and major incidents.
The Danish Armed Forces are setting up a strategic reserve of approximately 400 soldiers who at very short notice will be able to support the police during unforeseen major contingencies.
