Copenhagen [Denmark], July 8: Denmark plans to purchase two aircraft from the United States to improve its monitoring of the Arctic and the North Atlantic. The aircraft are Boeing P-8A Poseidons, the Danish Defence Ministry announced in a statement on Tuesday. Particularly well-suited for monitoring large maritime areas and detecting enemy submarines, the aircraft are based on the Boeing 737-800 passenger jet airframe.
The ministry emphasized the role the aircraft can play in defending Greenland.
"With the new maritime patrol aircraft, Denmark's ability to safeguard its sovereignty and monitor the region will be significantly enhanced," said Danish Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus, according to the statement.
"Furthermore, this procurement sends a clear signal that we take our shared responsibility within NATO seriously."
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced his intention to bring Greenland under his control and has expressed doubt about Denmark's ability to defend the Arctic island against enemies.
Greenland is largely autonomous but is part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Source: Qatar Tribune