The change from a bi-polar to a multi-polar world in the early 90´s initiated a change of focus for the Royal Danish Navy. Actively involved in the conflicts in the Persian Gulf Region, the Balkans, and the Middle East, the mission portfolio for the Navy shifted from territorial defence in home waters to Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcing Operations further a, field with NATO or Coalition Partners.
On this backdrop the Navy is in the process of radically changing both inventory and structure in order to increase the capabilities to meet the new tasks. 
The transition process
The transition process includes procurement of larger and more enduring vessels capable of traditional naval operations as well as supporting joint operations in a multinational context.
The aim of the procurement programme is to provide a versatile range of deployable naval capabilities able to support the Government’s political aims; be it by means of traditional naval operations, as part of joint combined operations, or by insertion of Special Operations Forces, as were seen during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.
In addition to actual operations, regular participation in NATO’s Standing Naval Forces as well as frequent participation in the Alliance’s exercise programme has provided valuable experience and been instrumental in shaping the transition process. The work at hand is progressing rapidly; hence, by the end of this decade, the Navy will be even better equipped and prepared for the global tasks of the future.
International commitments
Along with the international commitments, the Royal Danish Navy is allocated an increasingly important role on the national scene. The routine tasks of enforcing sovereignty in the territorial waters of Denmark proper, in and around Greenland, and around the Faeroe Islands are being expanded to include the responsibility for marine pollution surveillance and management.
In addition, Admiral Danish Fleet HQ has been bestowed the focal point for aspects related to the newly established Maritime Assistance Service – the IMO introduced organisation for increasing maritime safety.