Denmark seeks more Ukrainian arms firms and missile production

Denmark wants to host more Ukrainian weapons companies and expand its role in producing missiles, Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus said, according to DR. Denmark and Ukraine also plan to strengthen cooperation through the purchase and sale of drones and technology.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during his visit to Denmark that he is focused on anti-ballistic defence systems. He hopes the European air defence project Freyja can be tested this winter and produce positive results.

Bruus said Denmark should contribute more than the radar systems it already provides, including by helping bring production online. He said Denmark should be able to produce missiles, or parts of them, alongside close neighbours and allies. The work includes cooperation with Norway, the Norwegian defence company Kongsberg, Ukraine and other industry partners.

The first Freyja missile is not expected to be ready until late 2027 or 2028. Bruus said the project is being developed by an alliance focused on production, testing and eventual operation of the defensive missiles. He said he regretted that the system would not be ready for the coming winter, which is expected to be difficult for Ukrainians.

Bruus also said the closer cooperation would bring more Ukrainian arms companies to Denmark. Denmark is working on a drone shield using Ukrainian technology and intends to buy Ukrainian drones and systems designed to detect and bring down drones. A bill to establish the legal framework for the shield is being prepared.

Zelenskyy also described a possible role for Danish-made drones in helping escort Ukrainian export goods from Black Sea ports. He said ships need convoys for protection because Russia attacks with Iranian drones and various missiles. The potential drone delivery and how it would be financed remain unclear.

DR defence correspondent Mads Korsager said Zelenskyy appeared to indicate that Copenhagen Group, a company belonging to Jeppe Handwerk, could supply drones for an escort operation. He said that interpretation had yet to be confirmed.