Denmark expands military conscription and service duration

Denmark has launched an expanded military conscription program to strengthen its national defense and increase participation in NATO missions, including operations in Latvia and Greenland. The first group of 1,600 conscripts, primarily volunteers, has begun service under the new guidelines.

Key changes include extending the standard service duration from four months to 11 months for most units. Certain specialized units, such as the Kongelige Livgarde, Gardehusarregimentet, and the Kongeskibet Dannebrog, will undergo 12 months of training. This extension also applies to cyber defense units to allow for more advanced technical training.

The reform introduces full gender equality in conscription. Starting in 2026, both men and women will be called to service, with women expected to comprise approximately 20% of conscripts. The Danish government aims to increase the number of conscripts to about 7,500 annually by 2033 to build essential human resource reserves for the armed forces.