The service in question is a program lasting from six to twelve months, during which recruits acquire various military skills. The training takes place in Kangerlussuaq, located on the west coast of Greenland.
Only residents of Greenland over the age of 18 who have successfully passed a medical examination and written testing can participate in the program. Upon completion of the course, recruits have the opportunity to continue their service in the Danish armed forces.
“As a result of joint efforts by the Danish Ministry of Defense and the government of Greenland, it has been decided to increase the recruitment for basic Arctic education to 50 participants starting from the summer of 2026. This will allow us to meet the growing interest of Greenlandic youth in defense skills and readiness,” the Danish armed forces stated in a press release.
The program began in May 2024, when 22 participants were admitted for training, and later the quota was increased to 30 people.
Although Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, former U.S. President Donald Trump has previously suggested that the island should be transferred to the United States. In response, the authorities of Denmark and Greenland emphasized the importance of maintaining territorial integrity.
