1951denmark, USA agreement
The 1951 Defense of Greenland Agreement between the
U.S.
and
Denmark
allowed the
United States
to construct, operate, and maintain military bases (notably Thule Air Base) and station personnel in Greenland as part of NATO collective defense efforts. It granted the U.S. broad operational rights, creating a lasting, nearly unrestricted military presence in the region.
Key aspects of the 1951 agreement:
Military Access: The U.S. gained authority to operate in designated areas, allowing for comprehensive control over flights, sea movements, and construction.
Sovereignty: While granting access, the treaty formally recognized Danish sovereignty over Greenland.
Cold War Context: The pact was established to counter threats during the Cold War and to facilitate the defense of the North Atlantic area.
Duration: The agreement was tied to the North Atlantic Treaty (NATO) and was intended to last for the duration of that treaty.
Legacy: As of 2026, this foundational agreement still governs the U.S. military presence in Greenland, with recent, ongoing discussions centered on updating it for modern security needs, such as restricting Chinese and Russian investments in the territory.