Denmark ramps up military on Bornholm amid Baltic threats
The Danish government has announced an increase in military presence on Bornholm due to rising threats in the Baltic Sea region. A new infantry unit, consisting of about 500 to 900 soldiers, will be established on the island.
What do you need to know?
- Increased military presence on Bornholm: The Danish government plans to set up a new infantry unit on Bornholm, which will include approximately 500 to 900 soldiers. Currently, the island hosts 200 military personnel.
- Army reorganization: Denmark’s Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, emphasized that reorganizing the army is necessary due to increased threats in the Baltic Sea region.
- Increase in military positions: The Chief of the Danish Armed Forces, Michael Hyldgaard, announced plans to boost military positions from 23,000 to 28,000 by 2033 and increase the number of conscripts from 4,600 to 6,500.
Why is Denmark increasing its military presence on Bornholm?
The Danish government decided to enhance the military presence on Bornholm due to escalating threats in the Baltic Sea region. Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, highlighted that reorganizing the army is crucial in response to current challenges. Bornholm, located about 400 kilometres from the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, will host a new infantry unit with 500 to 900 soldiers.
What are the plans for the development of the Danish Armed Forces?
The Chief of the Danish Armed Forces, Michael Hyldgaard, outlined ambitious plans for army development. By 2033, military positions are set to expand from 23,000 to 28,000, and conscript numbers will rise from 4,600 to 6,500. These measures aim to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities amidst growing regional tensions.
What is the historical background of military presence on Bornholm?
Bornholm has a rich military history. Although Denmark was liberated from German occupation on May 5, 1945, the island was occupied by about 8,000 Russian soldiers until April 5, 1946. On May 7-8, 1945, Soviet aviation bombed the towns of Rønne and Nexø, leaving a lasting impact on the island’s history.
