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Consultation response on military mobility

Danish Ports' consultation response regarding the EU proposal on establishing a framework for measures to facilitate the transport of equipment, goods, and personnel for military purposes across the Union.

Danske Havne would like to thank you for the opportunity to comment on the EU proposal to strengthen military mobility in the EU.

Danske Havne wishes the following summary to be included in the Basic and Proximity Memorandum to the European Affairs Committee of the Danish Parliament and in the Danish position on the EU proposal. The summary concerns both the framework paper and the technical proposal.

  • Support and fair terms: Danish Ports fully supports the ambition to strengthen the EU's and NATO's joint defense preparedness. When ports are assigned new tasks and requirements as part of this, e.g. in connection with crisis situations, higher prioritization of military transport, or increased demands on port infrastructure, it is crucial that clear and predictable frameworks for financing and financial compensation are established. Military mobility is a national and European security issue and should not be financed through the normal operation of ports or municipal budgets.
  • Security and responsibility: Increased military and dual-use applications of ports change the security profile of ports and entail an increased risk of physical threats, cyber attacks, and hybrid attacks. Danske Havne considers it crucial that a clear and transparent division of responsibilities between the state, relevant authorities, and ports is established, including in relation to the prevention, protection, and handling of security incidents.
  • Coordination and involvement: Danske Havne emphasizes close coordination and early involvement of ports in both planning and implementation. Ports possess considerable practical knowledge and experience and should be regarded as active partners. In this context, it is important that clear contingency plans are drawn up with a clear division of roles and responsibilities.

Danske Havne fully supports the ambition to strengthen the EU's and NATO's joint defense capabilities and recognizes that effective military mobility is a prerequisite for this. Danish ports already play a central role in the European transport infrastructure and will continue to be crucial hubs for military mobility in the EU.


It is also crucial that other port activities continue to have access to port areas and navigation channels with sufficient depth, and that the central role of ports in the green transition is not overlooked as a result of new safety measures or considerations.


Danske Havne looks forward to a constructive dialogue and responsible implementation of the proposal in Denmark. At the same time, it is crucial that implementation takes place in a way that is practically feasible for the ports and that ensures a clear and predictable framework for financing, compensation, and liability.