Greenlandic parliament members criticize Danish drone base decision in Aalborg

Greenlandic parliament members Aaja Chemnitz and Aki-Matilda Høegh Dam are expressing strong disapproval regarding the decision to establish a base for the long-range drones being procured by the Danish Defense in Aalborg. “It’s a poor decision,” states Høegh Dam, criticizing the choice of a location over 3,000 kilometers away from the drones’ operational area, arguing it could lead to significant delays during rescue operations and surveillance.

The drones, which are part of an Arctic capacity package, are intended for monitoring in the Arctic and North Atlantic. According to the defense agreement, they are meant to enhance the military’s support capabilities for civil society in various areas, including emergency operations and environmental monitoring. However, Høegh Dam believes that the location undermines the objectives outlined in the agreement, stating, “Having a base thousands of kilometers from the operational area makes no sense.”

Chemnitz shares similar sentiments, questioning the classification of the drones as “Arctic assets” if they are based in Aalborg, which she emphasizes is not in the Arctic. She argues that the drones should be stationed in Greenland, specifically in Kangerlussuaq, where she has advocated for a drone center and pilot training.

While there is an expectation of around 76 jobs associated with the drone base in Denmark, including 70 in Aalborg, both parliamentarians feel that the decision disregards the political agreement made about Arctic capabilities. They claim it could be perceived as just another Danish initiative lacking genuine engagement with Greenlandic interests.