Denmark bolsters Bornholm defences amid Baltic tensions
The Danish government has announced an increase in military presence on Bornholm due to the rising threat in the Baltic Sea region. A new infantry unit consisting of 500 to 900 soldiers will be established on the island.
What do you need to know?
- Increased military presence on Bornholm: The Danish government has decided to set up a new infantry unit on Bornholm, which will consist of 500 to 900 soldiers. Currently, there are 200 military personnel stationed on the island.
- Army reorganisation: Denmark's Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, emphasised that the reorganisation of the army is necessary due to the rising threat in the Baltic Sea region.
- Increase in military positions: The Chief of the Danish Armed Forces, Michael Hyldgaard, announced an increase in military positions from 23,000 to 28,000 by 2033, and an increase in conscripts from 4,600 to 6,500.
Why is Denmark increasing its military presence on Bornholm?
The Danish government announced the decision to increase the military presence on Bornholm in response to the growing threat in the Baltic Sea region. Minister of Defence, Troels Lund Poulsen, stressed that army reorganisation is essential given the current challenges. Bornholm, located about 400 kilometres from the Russian Kaliningrad Oblast, will become the site for a new infantry unit consisting of 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, announced ambitious plans for the development of the army. By 2033, the number of military positions is set to increase from 23,000 to 28,000, and the number of conscripts from 4,600 to 6,500. These changes aim to strengthen the country's defence capabilities in the face of rising tensions in the region.
What is the historical background of military presence on Bornholm?
Bornholm has a rich history related to military presence. Although Denmark was liberated from German occupation on 5 May 1945, the island was occupied by 8,000 Russians until 5 April 1946. On 7-8 May 1945, Soviet aviation bombed the towns of Rønne and Nexø, leaving a lasting mark on the island's history.
