Overview
- Danish broadcaster DR, citing a Jan. 13 operations order and multiple officials, reports troops were flown to Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq with explosives, live ammunition and blood supplies to prevent U.S. aircraft from landing if ordered.
- The deployment was presented as Operation Arctic Endurance but sources say it was an operational deterrent, with Danish units joined by small contingents from France, Germany, Norway, Sweden and at least one British officer.
- Reporting describes Danish F‑35s moving north and a French naval vessel sailing toward the North Atlantic as Europe signaled solidarity to raise the diplomatic and military cost of any unilateral move.
- U.S. officials have said there were no war plans for Greenland, and on Jan. 21 President Trump stated he would not use force, while NORTHCOM’s Gen. Gregory Guillot this week cited talks to expand access under the 1951 defense agreement.
- Denmark and Greenland have not confirmed operational specifics, but DR’s account has been echoed by outlets citing European officials, and the revelations have become a central issue ahead of Denmark’s snap election on March 24.