Denmark's Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen acknowledges urgent security problems at military facilities. He says a final solution won't come within the next few months.
The National Auditors issued their strongest possible criticism in September. They found serious security deficiencies at military sites and insufficient control over who accesses weapons information.
Minister Poulsen admits immediate action is needed. 'Security must improve not in the long term but right now. I find the criticism serious, and targeted initiatives have been launched,' he stated.
Auditors noted overall security has worsened over the past five years. The Defense Ministry has known about these problems for years, but politicians haven't prioritized fixes.
The minister highlights he previously reported a 50 billion kroner backlog in defense funding. 250 million kroner will be allocated in 2026 to address deficiencies.
The Defense Intelligence Service rated security as 'unsatisfactory' between 2020 and 2024. This is the worst possible assessment.
Security shortcomings include missing alarms, inadequate guarding, and poor sound insulation.
Minister Poulsen emphasizes this requires both immediate and long-term action. 'It won't be easy, and I have no illusion that quick solutions will fix everything. But the Auditors' criticism demands action,' he said.
He admits problems stem from politicians failing to prioritize defense. The military was forced to cut 15% of its budget in 2012.
Poulsen was defense spokesperson at that time. He notes consultants claimed it wouldn't have an 'operative effect.'
'This has been a huge mistake for military capability,' he now says. Fixing it will take time.
'The challenge we face stems from decades of wear and tear. We must focus even more on correcting deficiencies,' the minister added.
The Conservative Party called the meeting and repeatedly asked when security will be properly addressed.
'This is no time for security gaps. Billions have been allocated through 2035,' said Conservative leader Mona Juul.
The minister referenced a steering group established this year that hasn't brought the military to where it needs to be.
Going forward, the defense chief must report at least three times annually on military security and weapons information status.
Defense Chief Michael Hyldgaard must submit a plan and strategy within coming weeks.
'When I see it, I can give a clearer and more precise answer to that question,' said Minister Poulsen.
The defense agreement committee will then be briefed.
Political neglect of military funding has created systemic security risks that won't be quickly resolved despite recent budget increases.