Strategic allies or Nordic outposts? Comparing US and Nordic perspectives on Nordic Defence Cooperation Agreements (DCAs)

Abstract

In recent years Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden have signed or updated bilateral Defence Cooperation Agreements (DCA) with the United States. These agreements were presented as enabling deeper defence cooperation with a strategic ally in a severely deteriorated European security environment. The agreements provided strategic flexibility for increased US presence in Northern Europe. However, rather than signalling unique relations between the Nordic countries and the United States, they should be seen as an extension of America’s overall strategic approach to military presence and cooperation with allies and partners in Europe. For the Nordic countries, the implication is that they cannot insulate themselves from political risks in the transatlantic relationship.