reports, according to a report by Reuters on April 22, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lynge announced on the same day that Denmark will invest approximately 400 million Danish kroner (about 600 million US dollars) in building and purchasing 26 naval vessels for patrols, oil spill response, and submarine cable surveillance. Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, multiple interruptions of power cables, telecommunications lines, and gas pipelines have put the Baltic Sea coastal countries on high alert. NATO has strengthened its military presence through frigates, aircraft, and unmanned surface vessels, but it remains concerned about Russia's "shadow fleet," which is used to transport oil, weapons, and grain. Lynge stated in a press release: "Unlike a few years ago, we now face much more serious threats at sea. Especially, we need to deal with the threatening Russia, while technology is advancing at lightning speed." After significantly cutting defense spending over more than ten years, Denmark last year planned to allocate approximately 190 billion Danish kroner for its armed forces over the next decade. The main goal of this Nordic country is to protect submarine cables and pipelines used for energy production and transmission, and prevent potential threats from Russia's "shadow fleet" to Denmark's maritime environment. The Ministry of Defense said that besides the 26 vessels, Denmark will also purchase unmanned vessels and sonar systems capable of monitoring and identifying harmful underwater activities. According to a report by Agence France-Presse on April 23, Denmark announced on the 23rd that it will increase 5,000 army positions within the next eight years, including the establishment of a new infantry battalion. The Danish Defense Minister emphasized that the country's security situation is "deteriorating." The Ministry of Defense said that a new infantry battalion will be established to ensure "continuous military presence" on Bornholm Island, a strategically important island in the Baltic Sea. Defense Minister Lynge said: "We live in an uncertain era, and it is crucial to have the ability to defend Denmark when the security situation deteriorates. In view of this, we have given special consideration to Bornholm." In February, the Danish government announced that due to the increased threat from Russia, it would increase defense spending by 50 billion Danish kroner over the next two years. This additional funding will bring Denmark's defense spending to 3% of GDP. The Ministry of Defense said that the number of military personnel (including both military and civilian staff) will increase from 23,000 to 28,000. Danish media reported that the added 5,000 positions include both military and civilian roles. Bornholm Island, located south of the Swedish coast, is considered a strategic location as ships must pass through it to exit the Baltic Sea. (Translated by Qiu Fang and Feng Xue) Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7497054560393888291/ Disclaimer: The article only represents the views of the author. Welcome to express your attitude by voting up or down below.