Fredensborg council rejects military test centre despite defence industry needs

A defence technology company’s plan to build a test centre in Fredensborg Municipality has been blocked by local politicians, going against the recommendation of the council’s own administration.

Danish defence firm Weibel Scientific had sought approval to construct a facility for testing military equipment, including radars and drones, on land it owns at Gunderødvej. But the municipality’s Plan, Traffic and Climate Committee unanimously rejected the proposal, citing concerns over its impact on the agricultural landscape.

“This is a valuable, cohesive area designated for farming and livestock—something we believe is incompatible with radar installations and testing,” said Mie Stattau of the Venstre party, who chairs the committee. She acknowledged the need for defence industry testing but argued that the nearby Sjælsmark Barracks, just kilometres away, would be a more suitable location.

Neighbour Anne-Sofie Lassen, whose property borders the site, welcomed the decision. “I’m deeply relieved that politicians have protected this wonderful landscape, where we’ve had organic farming for nearly 25 years,” she said. While sympathetic to defence needs, she agreed that the military base would be a better fit.

Weibel declined to comment in detail but confirmed it had “taken note” of the rejection. The company has previously faced legal challenges over its testing activities in neighbouring Hørsholm Municipality, where local authorities ruled its operations unlawful last year.

The firm is now pushing for new legislation that would override standard planning rules for defence-related facilities, arguing that current regulations hinder Europe’s military preparedness. The Danish Ministry of Defence has yet to respond to the proposal.

Fredensborg’s decision underscores growing tensions between local land-use priorities and the expanding needs of Denmark’s defence industry.