DefenseDenmark retires F-16 after more than four decades of service
The Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) has formally retired its F-16 fighter jets after more than 40 years in operational service, marking the end of an era that began in 1980.
The aircraft flew their final missions on January 18 during a farewell event at Skrydstrup Air Base, home to Denmark’s fighter wing. Large crowds gathered to witness the last flights and attend a ceremony honouring the role of the F-16 in Danish and international operations.
The F-16 served as Denmark’s primary combat aircraft for 46 years, carrying out air policing, deterrence and combat missions. Danish F-16s were deployed extensively on international operations, including in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Libya.
The retirement coincides with the full transition to the F-35, which is taking over Denmark’s combat air role. The first Danish F-35s were delivered in October 2023, and the fleet is expected to reach full operational capability next year. Denmark has ordered a total of 43 F-35s.
Despite their withdrawal from Danish service, the F-16s are not being retired from flying altogether. Some aircraft have been sold to Argentina, while others have been donated to Ukraine, reflecting their continued airworthiness after decades of maintenance and upgrades.
During the ceremony, senior military figures highlighted both the operational legacy of the F-16 and the technological shift represented by the F-35. The new fighter is intended to operate as part of a highly integrated battlespace, combining air, land, sea, space and digital domains, with advanced sensor fusion and data-sharing capabilities.
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