Denmark has formally retired its F-16 fighter jets after 46 years of service, completing the transition to the F-35A Lightning II as its sole combat aircraft, according to the Danish Armed Forces.
The retirement ceremony was held at Skrydstrup Air Base, with personnel and veterans of the F-16 program in attendance. The aircraft, long regarded as the Air Force’s “eyes and shield in the air,” played a key role in surveillance, deterrence, and combat missions since 1980.
General and former Chief of Defence Christian Hvidt, who flew the first Danish F-16 to Skrydstrup, highlighted the aircraft’s operational legacy and the expertise of Danish pilots and technicians. The F-16 participated in numerous international operations, including missions in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, and Libya.
Several retired F-16s have been sold to Argentina or donated to Ukraine, reflecting their continued operational viability. The Danish Air Force’s shift to the F-35 reflects modern combat demands, emphasizing integrated operations across land, air, sea, space, and digital domains, explained Steen Hartov, senior adviser at the Air Command’s Fighter Aircraft Division.
Denmark has ordered 43 F-35A jets, with the first delivery in October 2023. The fleet is expected to reach full operational capacity next year, completing the replacement of the F-16 as Denmark’s primary fighter aircraft.
The transition positions Denmark among NATO members adopting fifth-generation stealth technology, enhancing interoperability and modernizing national air defense capabilities.
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