Danish Defence Annual Conference (DDAC) 2027
The Danish Defence Annual Conference (DDAC) is a significant gathering focused on defense and security matters, held in Aalborg, Denmark. This event brings together key stakeholders to discuss contemporary challenges and future strategies in the defense sector. It serves as a crucial platform for dialogue and collaboration among national and international participants.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
The DDAC is particularly relevant given the evolving geopolitical landscape. Discussions at the conference often touch upon regional security concerns, technological advancements in defense, and international cooperation. For instance, the ongoing conflict in UKR has highlighted the importance of robust defense capabilities and alliances, making events like the DDAC vital for strategic planning and information exchange.
The conference provides an opportunity for DNK to showcase its contributions to collective security and to engage with partners on shared objectives. The insights and partnerships forged at this event can influence national defense policies and contribute to broader European security frameworks. Understanding the dynamics at play, as discussed at the DDAC, is essential for anyone tracking defense policy and international relations.
How to prepare
To effectively engage with the discussions at the DDAC, participants should undertake thorough preparation. This includes familiarizing oneself with DNK's defense posture and its contributions to international security operations. Researching the current defense spending trends and strategic priorities of key NATO and EU member states such as USA, DEU, GBR, and FRA would also be beneficial.
Consider the various perspectives that might be presented by representatives from different nations. For example, how might the security concerns of NOR, SWE, and FIN differ from those of POL or TUR? Understanding these nuances, particularly in the context of evolving threats from actors like RUS or the growing influence of CHN, will allow for a more informed and impactful participation. Engaging with resources like the Model Diplomat's "what-is-stakeholder-mapping" and "dynamic-analysis" lessons can provide frameworks for understanding the complex interplay of interests at such a high-level event.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 9 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
DenmarkHost nation with a strong interest in regional security and international defense cooperation.
Role in topic
As the host, DNK plays a central role in shaping the agenda and facilitating discussions on national and collective defense strategies. The conference reflects DNK's commitment to security and its partnerships with other nations.
United StatesKey NATO ally, focused on transatlantic security and technological advancements.
Role in topic
The USA's perspective is crucial for discussions on NATO's future, burden-sharing, and the deployment of advanced defense technologies. Their participation often highlights broader strategic objectives and security commitments.
GermanyMajor European economic and military power, emphasizing European defense integration and regional stability.
Role in topic
DEU's involvement is significant for discussions on EU defense initiatives, contributions to peacekeeping, and responses to regional crises. Their stance on defense spending and military modernization will be closely watched.
United KingdomSignificant European defense actor, focused on post-Brexit security role and global partnerships.
Role in topic
GBR's perspective will likely center on its independent defense policy, contributions to NATO, and bilateral defense agreements. Discussions may also touch upon its role in global security challenges.
NorwayNordic neighbor with strong Arctic security interests and NATO commitments.
Role in topic
NOR's participation will highlight Arctic security concerns, maritime defense, and its contributions to NATO's northern flank. Its perspective on regional cooperation with other Nordic countries is also important.
RussiaGeopolitical competitor, whose actions significantly influence European security discussions.
Role in topic
While not a direct participant in the same capacity as allies, RUS's military activities and foreign policy are a primary driver of defense discussions at the conference, particularly concerning regional stability and deterrence.
SwedenNordic nation with evolving defense policy, recently joined NATO, focused on regional security.
Role in topic
SWE's recent shift in security policy and its integration into NATO will be a key point of interest. Its perspective on collective defense and cooperation with Nordic and Baltic states is highly relevant.
FinlandNordic nation, recently joined NATO, focused on border security and regional defense.
Role in topic
FIN's new NATO membership and its long border with RUS make its insights on deterrence and regional security particularly valuable. Its experience in maintaining a strong national defense is also a key contribution.
UkraineNation at war, whose conflict is a central theme in European defense discussions.
Role in topic
The ongoing conflict in UKR will undoubtedly be a major topic, influencing discussions on military aid, defense industrial capacity, and the future of European security architecture. UKR's resilience and needs will be central.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
The Future of Danish and Allied Defence Posture
Key players
- Denmark
Host nation; rapidly expanding defence budget and reintroducing broader conscription
- United States
Principal security guarantor via NATO; key supplier of F-35s and advanced capabilities to Denmark
- Germany
Anchor of European conventional defence and major partner in joint procurement initiatives
- United Kingdom
Lead nation of the Joint Expeditionary Force, in which Denmark participates
- Norway
Nordic defence partner coordinating High North and North Atlantic posture
Comprehensive Security in an Era of Hybrid Threats
Key players
- Denmark
Coastal state in Nord Stream and Baltic cable incidents; lead on Arctic security via the Kingdom of Denmark
- Russia
Primary source of hybrid pressure across the Euro-Atlantic, including suspected sabotage and GPS interference
- Sweden
New NATO member sharing Baltic and Nord Stream investigations with Denmark
- Finland
NATO's longest border with Russia; leader in comprehensive societal security
ChinaGrowing strategic interest in Arctic infrastructure and dual-use technologies
NATO Adaptation After Ukraine
Key players
- United States
Largest NATO contributor; provider of strategic enablers and nuclear umbrella, with shifting political signals
- Denmark
Active contributor leading the F-16 coalition for Ukraine and key Baltic Straits ally
- Germany
Framework nation for NATO's brigade in Lithuania and major European defence investor
PolandEastern-flank state with Europe's fastest-growing military and highest defence spending share
TurkeySouthern-flank ally controlling the Turkish Straits and shaping enlargement debates
- Russia
Designated principal threat driving the Alliance's eastern-flank reinforcement
European Security and Strategic Autonomy
Key players
FrancePrincipal advocate of European strategic autonomy and EU nuclear-weapons state
- Germany
Largest EU economy and defence spender; pivotal to European industrial scale-up
- Poland
Eastern-flank heavyweight shaping EU posture toward Russia and Ukraine
- Denmark
Post-opt-out participant fully engaged in CSDP, EDIP, and Ukraine support
- United Kingdom
Non-EU European security power linked through bilateral and JEF arrangements
- Ukraine
De facto security provider on Europe's eastern frontier and candidate for EU accession
Rebuilding the European Defence Industrial Base
Key players
- Denmark
Pioneer of direct procurement from Ukrainian industry; expanding domestic ammunition output
- France
Major European prime contractor base; advocate of "Buy European" preferences
- Germany
Largest European producer of armoured vehicles, air defence, and ammunition
- United States
Dominant supplier of advanced platforms (F-35, Patriot) and partner in transatlantic supply chains
- Ukraine
Rapidly scaling indigenous defence industry, particularly in drones and electronic warfare
- Norway
Producer of NASAMS air defence and other systems central to allied capability
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for Danish Defence Annual Conference (DDAC) 2027.
Recent reporting to ground your prep
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance