By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Danish F-35A fighter jets, supported by a French aerial refueller, are patrolling Greenland’s skies as part of Operation Arctic Endurance, a response to escalating tensions with the United States over control of the island. The operation includes training missions focused on joint operations and harsh Arctic conditions, with planned sorties continuing throughout the exercise. Denmark has sought assistance from its NATO allies, and France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK have pledged troops. Meanwhile, political tensions have risen with punitive import tariffs threatened by the US, and Canada has put their purchase of American-made F-35As under review, looking for ways to reduce reliance on American defense suppliers.
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Denmark deploys F-35A stealth fighters over Greenland supported by French tanker is a scenario that, if pitched a decade ago, would likely have been met with derision and disbelief. The very notion of it feels ripped from the pages of a dystopian novel. The sheer speed with which the unthinkable can become a plausible reality is unsettling. The fact that this could even be a topic of discussion today is indicative of the rapid shifts in geopolitical dynamics and the increasing anxieties surrounding global security.
The presence of Danish F-35A stealth fighters over Greenland, with support from a French tanker, immediately highlights the critical strategic importance of the Arctic region. Greenland’s vast size, rich resources, and location between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans make it a coveted piece of real estate, further amplified by the impacts of climate change opening up new shipping routes. The increased military activity in this area is a direct response to a changing world order and evolving threat perceptions.
The F-35A, a cutting-edge, multi-role stealth fighter, represents a significant investment and a potent symbol of military capability. Denmark’s deployment of these aircraft underscores its commitment to defending its national interests and its role within NATO. The F-35s are not just planes; they represent an advanced technological capability that necessitates support.
The inclusion of a French tanker in this scenario brings in another critical layer of strategic cooperation. Tankers are crucial for extending the range and operational endurance of fighter jets. The partnership between Denmark and France, both NATO allies, emphasizes the interconnectedness of defense efforts and the shared responsibility for maintaining security in critical regions. This cooperation highlights the importance of multinational alliances in a world of complex and unpredictable threats.
The discussions about potential kill switches, software backdoors, and the ability of the US to remotely control or disable its military hardware raises critical questions about dependence and autonomy. The F-35’s software, particularly its maintenance and updates, is largely controlled by the US, giving rise to concerns about the potential for leverage or control, especially in times of tension. This point emphasizes the complexities inherent in relying on foreign-made military equipment. This raises valid questions that are not easily dismissed.
The idea of the US being able to “turn off” or restrict the functionality of the F-35s is understandably a source of concern. The reliance on US-supplied components is undeniable, as is the control that comes with that supply chain. This leads to the thought that perhaps countries should begin increasing their own manufacturing capabilities in order to mitigate these risks. While the US would undoubtedly be hampered by the UK stopping the supply of parts (15%), there is a need for greater autonomy within Europe to secure their security interests.
The reaction to all of this, whether the underlying reality or hypothetical scenarios, reflects a sense of unease and a growing skepticism about the future. The fear and speculation around the potential use of the F-35’s technology and the idea of a potential US invasion of Greenland seem to be a recurring theme in all of this. It reflects a deeper concern about the stability of the global order.
Ultimately, the deployment of Danish F-35As over Greenland, supported by a French tanker, serves as a vivid illustration of the new realities that define global power dynamics. It’s a clear signal of the intensifying focus on the Arctic, the evolving role of alliances, and the strategic complexities of modern warfare. It’s a sign that the world is changing, and the need for vigilance and cooperation is greater than ever.