A Danish air force F-16 fighter jet made its final landing at Skrydstrup air base on the afternoon of 16/1. This marked a ceremony for Squadron 727, Denmark's only remaining F-16 operational unit, signaling the country's complete retirement of the US-made fighter jets after 46 years of service.

"We never talk about the age of the F-16s, because they have always been in the hands of the world's best aviation technicians and pilots. Congratulations to Squadron 727, exciting and great challenges await you", said former general Christian Hvidt, who once served as commander of the Danish armed forces.

Danish F-16 fighter jet during the retirement ceremony at Skrydstrup air base on 19/1. *Photo: Danish Ministry of Defense*

Hvidt was also the first Danish F-16 pilot to land at Skrydstrup air base in January 1980. He was later appointed commander of Squadron 727.

In what was dubbed Denmark's "contract of the century" in the late 1970s, Copenhagen ordered the F-16 to replace its outdated F-100 Super Sabre, F-104G Starfighter, and Saab Draken fighter jets. A total of 77 F-16A/B Block 1/15 aircraft were delivered by the US in two main batches, with additional orders to replenish equipment worn out during use.

The Danish F-16 version featured some unique capabilities, such as a headlight on the front, left side of the fuselage for night interceptions. Two underwing pylons were also fitted with integrated sensors, electronic warfare equipment, and flare and chaff dispensers.

Denmark upgraded 61 F-16s to the F-16AM/BM standard, nearly equivalent to the F-16C/D Block 50/52, though they still lacked advanced radar.

Danish F-16 fighter jet flying over Greenland in June 2025. *Photo: Danish Ministry of Defense*

The Danish air force received its first F-35A stealth fighter from the US in April 2023, at a time when 43 F-16AM/BM aircraft were still operational. Denmark increased its F-35A order from 27 to 43 aircraft, with the entire fleet expected to achieve full operational capability by 2027.

The Danish air force stated that retiring the F-16s does not mean all of them will be scrapped, as many aircraft are still in good condition. Denmark has sold 24 F-16 fighter jets to Argentina and pledged to provide 19 more to Ukraine.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, War Zone)