Nordic defence boom draws new players as frictions persist

An international drone manufacturer establishing a presence in one of the Nordic capitals. 

A European prime seeking to raise awareness of its capabilities in the Arctic and across the region. 

Alongside them: start-ups, scale-ups and established defence contractors.

After attending two of the largest defence expos in the Nordics — Copenhagen in February and Stockholm in April- the direction is clear. Nordic markets remain highly attractive for the defence industry. Progress is evident, even if not at the pace many would prefer.

As Robert Limmergård of SOFF notes, the mix of participants is shifting. New entrants are appearing alongside established companies traditionally focused on civilian markets, now exploring defence opportunities.

In Denmark, the family-owned industrial group Danfoss is establishing a dedicated defence unit - one example of a non-traditional entrant moving into the sector.

In Stockholm, the second Defence Expo has nearly doubled in size, with 180 exhibitors and more than 2,000 expected attendees from industry, government and the armed forces over two days. 

According to exhibitors, the event has expanded to two buildings, up from one in its first year.

Copenhagen saw similar momentum, with record attendance of more than 1,000 participants and a high number of exhibitors showcasing products and capabilities.

Attention now turns to the DALO Industry Days in August, where further growth is expected. This year’s event will be held at the Messecenter Herning, already creating logistical pressure as companies compete for accommodation.

Yet constraints remain. 

Slow process

Industry sources say procurement processes within government systems are still slow, while start-ups and industry organisations point to persistent challenges in raising capital. 

Large investments like increased production capacity can remain uncertain for years before contracts and payments are secured.

The former may ease over time; the latter reflects a more structural financing challenge - one that warrants closer scrutiny.

Even so, momentum is unmistakable. 

The industry is expanding against a difficult geopolitical backdrop, with Europe assuming greater responsibility for its defence. 

The Nordic region continues to stand out, combining advanced capabilities with a growing and increasingly diverse industrial base.