In a decisive move to reinforce Denmark’s military presence in the Baltic Sea, the government has announced the establishment of a new infantry battalion named Bornholm Regiment. The plan, presented by Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen (V) during a press conference on Wednesday evening, is part of a broader strategy to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities amid growing regional tensions.
5,000 new employees to join the Danish Armed Forces
The initiative is not limited to Bornholm. As outlined in the newly revealed army plan (hærplan), Denmark’s Forsvaret (Defence) will see an overall increase of 5,000 personnel by 2033. This expansion will raise the total number of full-time employees from approximately 23,000 to 28,000, supported by significant financial allocations from the recently established Accelerationsfonden (Acceleration Fund).
Conscription numbers will also rise during this period, growing to 6,500 recruits. However, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen clarified that while more soldiers are being recruited, discussions about improved pay structures—a key demand from many service members—are still pending and will likely be addressed in the fall after a detailed analysis.
Bornholm to play a strategic role in the Baltic Sea
The new Bornholm Regiment will be formed by repositioning troops from Haderslev, signaling a major restructuring of Denmark’s military deployment. The move aims to enhance Denmark’s strategic posture in the Østersøen (Baltic Sea), a region of increasing geopolitical importance.
Chief of Defence Michael Hyldgaard, who also attended the press conference, emphasized the urgency of the plan:
“The build-up of the army’s combat capability must happen quickly, and that is why we are implementing it now.”
Although he did not specify exactly how many soldiers would be stationed on Bornholm, Hyldgaard highlighted the necessity of swift action to address emerging security challenges in the region.
Recruitment challenges remain a major hurdle
Despite the ambitious expansion, the Danish Armed Forces continue to grapple with significant recruitment and retention issues. Low salary levels have been a persistent grievance among soldiers, complicating efforts to attract new talent. Although the government acknowledges these concerns, no immediate promises regarding salary adjustments were made during the announcement.
“I am open to discussing how we can do more for soldiers’ salaries,” stated Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.
Denmark’s commitment to regional security
The establishment of the Bornholm Regiment and the broader increase in personnel underline Denmark’s commitment to enhancing its national security and fulfilling its responsibilities within the NATO alliance. The accelerated military buildup is seen as a proactive response to shifting security dynamics in the Baltic region, where stability has been increasingly under pressure in recent years.
