Denmark has extended mandatory military service for young conscripts from four months to eleven, nearly tripling its length. The 2026 conscription campaign launched on Monday, August 3, for 1,600 young men and women.
Danish officials cited the growing threat from Russia, particularly significant for Denmark as a NATO member, since the war in Ukraine began. Colonel Michael Villumsen told AFP during a visit to the Oksbol military base in western Denmark that the security situation tied to Russia, and what Russia might be capable of if NATO does not respond, explained the change. He said NATO is acting now, and Denmark's contribution is to rapidly strengthen its combat readiness through conscription.
How conscription works
Denmark does not force its young people into military service. Danes aged at least 18 who are deemed fit first volunteer, and in rare cases where recruits are lacking, others are chosen by lottery.
About 20 percent of this year's conscripts are women, according to the armed forces, the first year young Danish women have been able to apply for military service.
The reform also broadens conscripts' duties. The first three to five months cover basic military skills such as shooting, first aid and physical training, after which recruits are assigned to operational missions including surveillance and drone piloting.
