Denmark to buy Joint Strike Missiles for its F-35s and the land-launched Anthem for long-range strikes

Denmark’s government announced on Thursday, October 22, that it will buy two types of long-range precision missiles: the Joint Strike Missile (JSM) from Norway’s Kongsberg for its F-35A fighters and the land-launched Anthem cruise missile from the American company Covenant, according to Defense News. Kongsberg confirmed the selection of the JSM and said it will inform the market once a contract is signed. The scope and value of the contract will be subject to negotiation.

Defence Minister Jeppe Brous said both purchases follow a recommendation of the Chief of Defence. “These are the Norwegian Joint Strike Missile from Kongsberg, which can be used by our F-35s, and the land-launched Anthem cruise missile from the American Covenant,” he said. “The purchases are an important step so that Denmark can defend itself better, strengthen NATO and increase our ability to strike back.”

The Danish Ministry of Defence explains that both weapons use advanced navigation technology to hit targets accurately at long range. Their purpose is to deter an attack on Denmark and, if necessary, strike targets deep inside enemy territory. Copenhagen has committed to providing the Alliance with long-range strike capability by 2030.

The two missiles

The JSM is a fifth-generation, low-observable air-to-surface missile designed to fit in the F-35A’s internal weapons bays, so the aircraft carries it without losing its stealth characteristics. Denmark becomes the seventh country to choose the missile, after Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, Norway and the United States. The JSM is also being discussed for Greek F-35s, while Kongsberg recently signed a framework agreement for the NSM with the US Marines.

The Anthem has not yet been used in combat. Covenant announced in September a new production facility in Leipzig, Germany, and expects to turn out missiles there from early 2027. Danish broadcaster TV2 reports the missiles for Denmark will be built in Germany. The German defence ministry has said it is in talks with Covenant to buy the weapon. The company promotes the Anthem as a cheaper solution than the missiles on the market today.

Long-range strike missiles have become a priority for many European countries that want an independent deterrent against Russia. For Denmark it is an entirely new capability, since its armed forces have no weapons of this category today. The ranges such missiles cover typically run from 500 to 1,500 kilometres, depending on engine and warhead.