Denmark Establishes MQ-9B Drone Squadron for Arctic Surveillance

Why It Matters

The squadron bolsters NATO’s northern intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) posture while giving Denmark a dual‑use platform for security and civilian needs in a geopolitically sensitive Arctic corridor.

Key Takeaways

• Squadron 729 will field four MQ‑9B drones
• Deliveries begin in 2028, training starts now
• Enhances surveillance across Arctic, North Atlantic, Baltic
• Supports both military intelligence and civilian monitoring

Pulse Analysis

Denmark’s decision to stand up Squadron 729 reflects a broader shift toward persistent, high‑altitude ISR in the high‑latitudes. The MQ‑9B’s 24‑hour endurance and advanced sensor suite give Copenhagen the ability to monitor vast maritime approaches, track ice movements, and detect potential incursions far beyond the reach of traditional patrol aircraft. By positioning the unit at Aalborg, the Danish Air Force leverages existing logistics while creating a forward‑looking hub that can integrate seamlessly with NATO’s northern command structures.

The acquisition also underscores the growing convergence of defence and civilian objectives in the Arctic. Beyond traditional intelligence gathering, the MQ‑9B can support climate research, fisheries oversight, and search‑and‑rescue operations, delivering cost‑effective data to both military analysts and civilian agencies. This dual‑use capability aligns with Denmark’s policy of maximizing asset utility in a region where commercial activity, scientific interest, and strategic competition intersect. For NATO allies, the platform offers a shared data source that can improve joint situational awareness and streamline coordination across the North Atlantic and Baltic theatres.

Integrating unmanned aircraft into shared airspace presents operational challenges, particularly regarding communication with civilian air traffic control and ensuring robust cyber‑security measures. Denmark’s emphasis on ground‑based pilot stations and adherence to conventional ATC protocols mitigates some risks, but the transition will require sustained training and investment in secure data links. As other Arctic nations explore similar capabilities, Denmark’s early move positions it as a regional leader in leveraging unmanned technology for both security and environmental stewardship, setting a template for future procurement cycles.

Denmark establishes MQ-9B drone squadron for Arctic surveillance

By Emily Ryan Miller · Feb 17 2026

![Image of the new MQ‑9B drones]

Key Points

• Denmark established Squadron 729 to operate MQ‑9B drones for surveillance missions across the Arctic, North Atlantic, and Baltic regions.

• The new unit will prepare personnel and infrastructure ahead of aircraft deliveries beginning in 2028 to expand long‑range monitoring and intelligence capabilities.

Denmark’s Air Force on Monday formally established Squadron 729 to operate newly acquired MQ‑9B long‑range remotely piloted aircraft, marking a step in expanding surveillance capabilities across the Arctic, North Atlantic, and Baltic regions. The new unit will be based at Aalborg Air Base under the Air Transport Wing, according to an announcement from the Danish Armed Forces.

The squadron will serve as the operational home for four MQ‑9B unmanned aircraft recently procured by Denmark to strengthen monitoring and reconnaissance missions tied to national and regional security interests. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery beginning in 2028, while training and personnel recruitment will continue in the years leading up to operational deployment.

According to the Danish Armed Forces, the MQ‑9B systems will contribute to the ongoing development of defense capabilities, particularly those focused on surveillance and monitoring activities in the Arctic and North Atlantic—areas that Danish officials have long identified as requiring expanded situational awareness.

The new squadron was inaugurated during a ceremony at Aalborg Air Base attended by Air Force leadership, including Major General Jan Dam, Chief of the Danish Air Force; Major Mark Kragh Christiansen, commander of Squadron 729; and Colonel Lars Hedemark, commander of Air Transport Wing.

The MQ‑9B is a long‑endurance remotely piloted aircraft capable of remaining airborne for up to 24 hours. Danish officials said the system will primarily support intelligence gathering, maritime monitoring, and reconnaissance missions across vast operational areas, including Greenland and surrounding Arctic waters.

In addition to military roles, the aircraft are expected to support environmental monitoring, search‑and‑rescue operations, and Danish intelligence activities. The dual‑use capability reflects Denmark’s broader approach to Arctic operations, where civilian and defense missions frequently overlap.

Although classified as unmanned aircraft, Danish officials emphasized that the systems remain heavily dependent on human operators. Pilots will control the aircraft from ground‑based cockpits, transmitting commands through radio communications links. For operators, flying the MQ‑9B is expected to resemble operating a modern crewed aircraft equipped with advanced autopilot and mission systems.

The aircraft will operate in shared airspace alongside civilian aviation, requiring pilots to maintain standard communication with air traffic control and other aircraft, similar to traditional aviation procedures.