Denmark stands up new MQ-9B operating unit

A rendering of the MQ-9B in Royal Danish Air Force markings. Denmark announced on 22 July 2025 that it is acquiring four such air vehicles to be delivered between 2028 and 2029. (Danish Ministry of Defence)

Denmark has stood up a new unit to operate its recently ordered General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc (GA-ASI) MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian unmanned aircraft systems (UASs).

The Danish Ministry of Defence (MoD) said on 16 February that the Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) has activated 729 Squadron to operate the four MQ-9B air vehicles that are to be used to help monitor the Baltic, as well as the Arctic and the North Atlantic.

“The new squadron will be part of the Air Transport Wing, and will therefore physically belong to Aalborg Air Station,” the MoD said, adding, “Part of the build-up of the squadron is also about recruiting pilots, technicians, and other personnel. In total, around 100 employees will be needed.”

News of the reformation of 729 Squadron (the unit had previously operated from 1955 to 1993) came seven months after Denmark signed for four air vehicles and three ground control stations in July 2025, with deliveries to take place between 2028 and 2029. The value of the deal was not disclosed.

According to the MoD, the unmanned aircraft will be deployed to support environmental monitoring and search-and-rescue operations, and contribute to Danish intelligence work. “It has long been hoped that the Armed Forces would have better opportunities to monitor and reconnoiter in the Arctic and Greenland. Squadron 729 and the new long-range aircraft are part of the answer,” the MoD said.

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Denmark signs for MQ-9B unmanned aircraft system