The Danish defense is exploring its options for a new long-range precision strike missile, with Norway’s Joint Strike Missile (JSM) emerging as a strong contender due to its compatibility with the F-35 fighter jet and proven success in multiple allied nations.
Denmark Considers New Strike Capability
The Danish government recently announced plans to invest in offensive military capabilities to strengthen Danish defense and deter potential threats, particularly in light of growing tensions with Russia. Key to this effort is acquiring a new long-range, precision-guided missile system that complements Denmark’s fleet of F-35 fighter jets. The goal is to make Danish defense stronger.
One of the leading candidates under consideration is the Joint Strike Missile (JSM), a highly advanced weapon developed by the Norwegian defense company Kongsberg. Notably designed to integrate directly with the F-35’s internal weapons bay, the JSM provides a strategic advantage by preserving the aircraft’s stealth capabilities during operations. The missile is already used by NATO partners.
The Joint Strike Missile: Tailored for Modern Air Power
The JSM is a versatile, supersonic missile built specifically for use with fifth-generation fighter jets. It is capable of engaging targets deep behind enemy lines, such as radar stations, missile launch sites, military bases, or naval vessels. With a range of approximately 300 miles, it enables forces to strike without exposing aircraft to hostile air defense systems.
What sets the JSM apart is its two-way communication system, a feature that allows target updates even after launch, increasing precision and adaptability mid-mission. Moreover, because the missile fits inside the F-35’s fuselage, it does not compromise the plane’s stealth profile, enabling pilots to bypass early warning radar systems.
Increasing Global Demand for JSM
Since its development, the JSM has attracted significant international interest. According to Kongsberg, the missile has already been purchased by five countries: Norway, Australia, Japan, Germany, and the United States. The U.S. alone has placed large orders, prompting Kongsberg to open a new production facility in Virginia to meet demand and improve supply chain security.
The missile’s increasing popularity signals a broader shift toward modern, network-integrated weapons systems across NATO and allied nations. Its compatibility with the widely deployed F-35 makes the JSM an appealing choice for Denmark, which currently operates 27 of these aircraft. Norway, by comparison, has acquired 52.
Norwegian Endorsement of Danish Adoption
Norwegian defense officials have praised their own decision to integrate the JSM into their air force, describing it as a “great power weapon in a small state format.” They regard the missile’s precision, range, and stealth capabilities as essential in deterring high-value targets.
From a Nordic defense standpoint, a potential Danish acquisition would open the door to joint training exercises and shared tactical planning between Denmark and Norway. Alignment in the Danish defense weapons systems would allow both nations to develop joint strike strategies using the same platforms and munitions, providing increased coherence within NATO’s northern flank.
Strategic Value Amid Regional Tensions
Denmark’s shift toward long-range weapons responds to evolving Danish defense priorities in the region. As geopolitical tensions rise in Europe, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, nations across the continent are reassessing their defensive and offensive postures.
A missile like the JSM, able to destroy launch platforms before enemy missiles are deployed, fits this context well. Modern air defense is not only reactionary but increasingly aimed at eliminating threats before they materialize. With this in mind, Denmark is reported to be conducting a comprehensive review of available long-range precision strike options.
Cost and Timeline Considerations
While Kongsberg has not disclosed the exact per-unit cost of the JSM, estimates suggest that each missile runs into the “many millions” of Danish kroner. Despite the price tag, defense analysts argue that a relatively small number of these missiles could neutralize significant Danish military assets, such as warships, making the investment cost-effective in terms of strategic impact.
As part of the F-35 program, Denmark would likely benefit from favored delivery status, as Kongsberg prioritizes customers within the aircraft’s operational consortium. Nevertheless, no specific timeline or procurement contract has been made public.
For now, Denmark’s Ministry of Defense confirms that the project is still in its early evaluation phase. A final recommendation on which missile to acquire will follow a detailed market assessment and analysis by the Chief of Defense, after which the proposal will be presented to the parliamentary defense committee for approval.
