US naval forces and Denmark defense forces train on SM-6 missile launcher

Europe, News, US September 21, 2023 , by IRIA No Comments

U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Danish Defense Forces conducted joint drills on advanced convoy protection using the SM-6 missile launcher. The drills began on September 18, 2023, in Bornholm, Denmark.

The drills are part of the U.S. ongoing commitment to transatlantic security and defense interoperability with allies. The U.S. Navy said in a statement, “This exercise further solidifies the enduring defense partnership between the U.S. and Denmark, emphasizing our joint dedication to mutual security objectives and cooperative defense efforts.”

During the drills, the forces of the U.S. and Denmark used the state-of-the-art modular SM-6 missile launcher. “The SM-6 missile system stands as a testament to advanced defense technology. It possesses the capability to intercept airborne threats, including the critical interception of ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight,” according to the U.S. Navy statement.

The statement further highlighted that “The missile’s dual-capability design ensures precision engagement of both stationary terrestrial targets and dynamic maritime adversaries” adding that the containerized setup of the SM-6 launcher enhances the U.S. Navy’s ability to swiftly deploy and use it in various operational theaters.

The exercise between the U.S. naval forces and Danish defense forces underscores the United States’ commitment to safeguarding its own security interests as well as those of its allies.

*^{Dynamic Front military exercise led by the United States takes place in a training area, in Oksbol, Denmark, on March 30, 2023. (Image Credit: Ritzau Scanpix/Bo Amstrup/via Reuters)}*

Denmark has recently announced a large-scale military aid package for Ukraine worth 5.8 billion Danish crowns ($833 million). The military package includes tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, tank ammunition, and anti-aircraft guns for Ukrainian forces.

The Nordic nation is also providing Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets and related equipment. Denmark also intends to receive U.S. F-35 stealth jets and further strengthen defense ties with the United States.

Earlier in July, U.S. President Biden, during his meeting with the Nordic leaders, reaffirmed his commitment to transatlantic, European, and Northern European security. The United States and Nordic nations are pacing efforts to deepen their security and defense cooperation through the Nordic Defense Cooperation framework.