Starting in 2026, Denmark will begin conscripting women for compulsory military service, a landmark decision aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces in the face of rising tensions with Russia, Bloomberg reported.

Until now, women could enlist on a voluntary basis, while men were obliged to serve if called up. With the new measure, Denmark will unify the military service model for both genders, bringing forward the implementation by one year ahead of schedule.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen explained that this reform is part of a broader plan to modernize and strengthen the country’s military capabilities.

Among other measures, the government will allocate DKK 12 billion (approximately US$1.7 billion) to strengthen a tank brigade and study the purchase of two air tankers for in-flight refueling.

These funds will come from the Government’s Acceleration Fund, created in February to respond quickly to security challenges in Europe.

Beyond the technical aspects, the inclusion of women in compulsory service marks a profound change in Danish society, which seeks to adapt to a new geopolitical context where gender equality also translates into shared responsibilities.