Abstract
This thesis examines how the Forward Operation Base Armadillo in Helmand Province could be seen as a result of Danish National Security Strategy. The thesis argues that the Danish use of armed forces in Helmand is guided by three principles: to demonstrate trustworthiness to the United Kingdom; to promote UN principles and comply with international obligations under inter-national law; and finally, to support capacity building efforts in Helmand through the comprehensive approach.
The initial focus on Armadillo was in fact guided by the above mentioned principles as part of the Danish Theater Strategy. However, as a result of the focus on local capacity building in the Danish area of responsibility, this guiding principle influenced the continuing focus on FOB Armadillo, even though the British Task Force Helmand wanted to make use of the Danish forces elsewhere.
The thesis argues that the Danish political focus on short term improvements in fact could have undermined the relationship with the United Kingdom.
The thesis concludes that Denmark has domestic political issues compromising the long term strategic ends in a way that makes the use of armed forces a difficult strategic maneuver for the units ‘in theater’.