Denmark plans to acquire long-range missiles from the United States
The U.S. Department of State has approved the potential sale of AGM-158B/B-2 JASSM-ER cruise missiles to Denmark, which plans to integrate them into the arsenal of its F-35A fighter jets. With a range of up to 926 kilometers, these missiles will significantly enhance the strike capabilities of the Danish Air Force and expand the potential of the latest combat aircraft.
The value of the potential contract is $824 million.
The package includes up to 203 JASSM-ER cruise missiles, training missiles, transport containers, spare parts, software, technical documentation, and logistical support.
Officials in Washington noted that the deal will strengthen Denmark’s ability to counter current and future threats by providing its combat aviation with high-precision long-range weapons. Lockheed Martin will serve as the prime contractor.
It is noted that the delivery is expected to improve the interoperability of the Danish Air Force with U.S. forces and other NATO allies.
As of today, it has been officially confirmed that the Finnish and Polish Air Forces operate JASSM missiles. The air forces of Italy, the Netherlands, and Germany are also set to receive them.
These missiles form the backbone of the long-range strike capability of the F-35 Lightning II fighters, which is why the operating countries are actively procuring them for their air fleets. Outside of Europe, Japan and Australia have also acquired JASSM missiles to arm their F-35A fighter jets.
The JASSM-ER is currently one of the longest-range air-launched cruise missiles in service with tactical aviation. With a launch weight of about 1,200 kilograms, it is capable of striking targets at a range of up to 926 kilometers. The missile carries a 450-kilogram penetrating warhead.
The guidance system has a combined architecture. During the cruise phase of flight, the missile uses an inertial navigation system with GPS corrections, and in the terminal phase, the target is acquired by an infrared homing seeker, ensuring high strike accuracy.
This was reported by the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs of the U.S. Department of State.
Denmark plans to continue resisting U.S. pressure regarding Greenland.
As a reminder, the U.S. is opening a new consulate in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, and this has already sparked protests by local residents, who view the increased American presence as political pressure. At the same time, Washington is actively increasing its interest in the island due to its strategic importance in the Arctic.
The U.S. has stated that Greenland could become an alternative to oil routes through the Strait of Hormuz, which are currently under threat due to tensions with Iran. Washington believes that the island is capable of significantly influencing the global oil market.
