A recent development in the Danish defence sector has sparked controversy, with the dismissal of General Flemming Lentfer, the former head of the Danish forces. The intrigue surrounding his abrupt dislodgement and the potential impending legal battle promises an eye-opening glimpse into the dynamics between the military and political power in Denmark.
Lentfer’s Abrupt Dismissal
General Flemming Lentfer found himself at the receiving end of a sudden dismissal following revelations of faults in the Iver Huitfeldt frigate during a drone assault. The Defence Minister, Troels Lund Poulsen, argued that his dismissal was mandated by a loss of trust.
In an unusual move, Lentfer discovered a note instructing him to pack up his belongings as quickly as possible when he returned to his office. He was given only an hour's notice of his dismissal, and his access to his phone and computer was promptly blocked.
Behind the Frigate Incident
The controversy was triggered when the Iver Huitfeldt frigate was rendered incapable of using its RIM-162 ESSM surface-air missiles against drones for a period of 30 minutes. This was due to a computer glitch, and the crew had to resort to the ship's 76mm guns in a bid to neutralize the threat. Sadly, even the anti-aircraft shells that were fired proved to be defective.
Interestingly, the Defence Minister, Poulsen, claimed that he was made aware of the extent of the frigate's issues through the media, suggesting that the Danish military staff may have been concealing information.
Legal Challenge on the Horizon
Through his lawyer, Lentfer announced on April 12 that he is weighing up his options and may resort to legal proceedings against his “unfair dismissal”. His attorney, Torben Koch, asserts that his client refutes any factual basis for the disciplinary measures levelled against him. He was not subject to any criticism from the minister prior to the dismissal decision, says Koch.
Strained Relations
The weeks leading up to Lentfer's dismissal were reportedly marked by a “deterioration” in the relations between him and Poulsen. This strain was particularly pronounced due to delays and escalating costs in the acquisition of ATMOS howitzers and PULS rocket launchers from Elbit Systems.
The Larger Implications
The public contestation of the dismissal, especially by a senior officer, rings alarm bells as it is quite unusual. It underscores a disturbing lack of trust between the political establishment and the military authorities in Denmark.