Denmark has officially retired its F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet after 46 years of operational service, marking the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF). The fourth-generation fighter conducted its final ceremonial flights during a farewell event at Skrydstrup Air Base, clearing the way for a complete transition to the F-35A Lightning II.
Since entering service in 1980, Danish F-16s have played a central role in both national defense and international operations. The aircraft supported NATO air policing missions, defended Danish territories including Greenland and Iceland, and flew combat missions over Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Syria, and the Balkans, underscoring Denmark’s long-standing commitment to alliance operations.
As the F-16 exits frontline service, Denmark has redirected much of its remaining fleet toward allied requirements. Several aircraft have been donated to Ukraine to bolster its air combat capabilities, while 24 used F-16s were sold to Argentina, which took delivery of its first Danish aircraft in December.
Looking ahead, Denmark plans to operate 43 F-35A fifth-generation fighters for air defense and strike missions. This includes an original 27-jet order and an additional 16 aircraft approved in October 2025, driven by heightened security concerns such as drone incursions into Danish airspace and rising geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland. The full F-35 fleet is expected to reach full operational capability by 2027.
