Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Denmark’s increased defense budget and cutting-edge 3D printing technologies are fortifying Greenland and supporting global stability.
Denmark has recently announced a significant increase in its annual defense budget, raising it from US$5 billion to US$7 billion per year. This US$2 billion boost aligns with a broader trend across Europe, where countries are ramping up defense expenditures in response to geopolitical concerns and U.S. pressure to elevate defense budgets to 5 percent of GNP. Denmark’s approach to this increase is notably strategic, focusing on strengthening internal defenses, providing additional material support to Ukraine, and directing a substantial US$1.9 billion toward enhancing Greenland’s defenses.
The Greenland defense budget allocation is particularly astute, as it simultaneously addresses U.S. calls for increased defense spending and counters criticisms regarding Denmark’s commitment to Greenland’s security. By prioritizing Greenland, Denmark also reinforces its intention to maintain the territory under Danish control amidst global interest in the Arctic region.
Denmark’s World-Class 3D Printing Expertise
One of Denmark’s standout strategic advantages lies in its world-class expertise in 3D printing. The country is home to leading innovators like COBOD and Danfoss, which are pioneering 3D printing technologies in construction and manufacturing, respectively. The sophisticated use of 3DP technologies by Danish companies not only supports domestic economic growth but also positions Denmark as a valuable contributor to international projects, including the potential rebuilding of Ukraine.
COBOD: Redefining Construction with 3D Printing
COBOD, a Danish-headquartered company, is at the forefront of 3D printing in construction. Specializing in 3D printed cement applications, COBOD has gained international recognition for its ability to produce robust and cost-effective building structures using advanced printing technologies. The company’s innovative approach allows for faster construction times, reduced material waste, and greater design flexibility.
A recent example of COBOD’s impact is its collaboration with GE Renewable Energy and LafargeHolcim to develop 3D printed bases for wind turbines. These concrete bases can support taller turbines, which in turn generate more energy and reduce the overall carbon footprint of wind power installations. As Europe and the world push for greener energy solutions, this technology is increasingly valuable.
In the context of Denmark’s increased defense budget, COBOD’s technology could play a critical role in building new military installations and infrastructure in Greenland. The harsh Arctic conditions require durable and quickly deployable structures, and 3D printing offers a viable solution. Furthermore, COBOD’s technology could be instrumental in the reconstruction of war-torn Ukraine, as highlighted in a previous Fabbaloo article. By providing scalable and resilient building solutions, COBOD could help accelerate the rebuilding process and contribute to humanitarian efforts.
Danfoss: Pioneering 3D Printing in Manufacturing
Danfoss, another renowned Danish company, is an extensive user of 3D printing technologies in manufacturing. The company produces a wide range of products, including pumps, heating and cooling solutions, and various building components. At COP28, Danfoss showcased its commitment to sustainability and innovation, demonstrating how 3D printing enables the company to prototype rapidly, reduce material waste, and create complex components that traditional manufacturing methods cannot achieve.
Danfoss’s expertise in 3D printing aligns well with Denmark’s broader defense strategy. By leveraging 3D printing, Danfoss can produce critical components for military equipment and infrastructure, contributing to the nation’s internal defense capabilities. Additionally, as military demands often drive technological advancements, Danfoss stands to benefit from the increased defense spending, which may open new opportunities in both defense and civilian markets.
Strategic and Economic Implications
Denmark’s approach to meeting increased defense budget requirements demonstrates a high level of sophistication. By investing significantly in Greenland’s defense, Denmark not only addresses geopolitical pressures but also strengthens its foothold in the Arctic. The strategic use of funds to support the Ukraine conflict further enhances Denmark’s international standing as a proactive and responsible ally.
Moreover, Denmark’s robust 3D printing sector, led by companies like COBOD and Danfoss, is well-positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape. The anticipated military-to-civilian economy conversion, where defense technologies find broader commercial applications, could provide Danish companies with lucrative opportunities. For example, 3D printing technologies initially developed for military use, such as rapid prototyping or durable building structures, could transition into commercial markets like construction, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
The Research & Development Tax Credit
The now permanent Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit is available for companies developing new or improved products, processes and/or software.
3D printing can help boost a company’s R&D Tax Credits. Wages for technical employees creating, testing and revising 3D printed prototypes are typically eligible expenses toward the R&D Tax Credit. Similarly, when used as a method of improving a process, time spent integrating 3D printing hardware and software can also be an eligible R&D expense. Lastly, when used for modeling and preproduction, the costs of filaments consumed during the development process may also be recovered.
Whether it is used for creating and testing prototypes or for final production, 3D printing is a great indicator that R&D Credit-eligible activities are taking place. Companies implementing this technology at any point should consider taking advantage of R&D Tax Credits.
Conclusion
Denmark’s elegant solution for meeting defense budget increases illustrates how sophisticated and forward-thinking the nation is. By focusing on Greenland’s defense and leveraging its advanced 3D printing capabilities, Denmark not only meets international expectations but also strengthens its own economic and strategic position. Companies like COBOD and Danfoss exemplify how technological innovation can support national defense while contributing to broader economic goals.
As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, Denmark’s multifaceted approach, combining defense strategy with industrial innovation, could serve as a model for other nations. The dual focus on military readiness and economic development, supported by cutting-edge 3D printing technologies, underscores Denmark’s potential to play a pivotal role on the global stage, from Greenland to Ukraine and beyond.
