The Royal Danish Air Force has activated 729 Squadron to boost surveillance coverage in the Arctic and Greenland, assigning it four MQ-9B SeaGuardian unmanned aerial systems.
Denmark secured the drones in July 2025 through the NATO Support and Procurement Agency, with arrival anticipated in 2028. Based at Aalborg Air Base under the Air Transport Wing, the squadron will consist of more than 100 personnel. The first operators have already been designated and will undergo training in the United States.
Reinstating a Historic Unit
The squadron previously operated as a photographic reconnaissance unit from 1955 to 1993, including missions linked to intelligence efforts during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Today, its mission set will include intelligence gathering, environmental observation, and search-and-rescue operations.
SeaGuardian Overview
The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is the naval configuration of the SkyGuardian drone, designed with a modular system for rapid payload customization.
It can carry maritime radar, AIS receivers, electronic support measures, and an anti-submarine warfare package. With satellite connectivity enabling long-range missions, the drone can fly for over 30 hours, operate in harsh weather, and integrate into civilian airspace.
It measures 12 meters long, has a 24-meter wingspan, and can operate at heights of up to 15,000 meters.
