How about we step back in time to Værløse Air Base? This former Royal Danish Air Force base holds stories of war, resilience, and transformation. It’s a place where history and nature now intertwine.
Værløse Air Base is located just northwest of Copenhagen. It served as a vital military installation for many years. Today, it stands as a testament to Denmark’s aviation history.
Established in 1910 as a camp for army recruits, the site evolved. By 1934, it became an official air base. Hangars and facilities were constructed to accommodate five squadrons. These included a command squadron and fighter squadrons. Reconnaissance squadrons were also based here.
During World War II, Værløse Air Base faced a brutal attack. On April 9, 1940, German Luftwaffe Messerschmitt Bf 110 aircraft struck. The attack came in five waves. It lasted approximately 45 minutes. Almost all of the Danish aircraft were destroyed. A reconnaissance aircraft was shot down killing its crew. The Germans focused on the aircraft, leaving the base infrastructure intact. The Luftwaffe then used the airfield throughout the war. They stationed various units here. Captured Allied aircraft were also brought to Værløse.
Towards the end of the war, the airfield became a haven. Flights carrying refugees from East Prussia and the Baltic states arrived. By the time of the German capitulation, 131 aircraft were at the base. Immediately after the war, it served as a refugee camp.
In 1946, the Danish army returned to Værløse Air Base. A Flight Mechanics School opened in 1947. The Royal Danish Air Force was founded in 1950. In January 1951, Værløse became the home of the Danish Air Command. It also housed the Royal Danish Air Force Officers School. Eskadrille 722, a light transport squadron, was formed here.
In 1952, plans to upgrade the runways for jet aircraft caused controversy. Copenhagen municipality and the local parish council opposed the expansion. The new NATO standard runway was completed in 1953.
Over the years, Værløse Air Base underwent further development. In the 1970s, a new hangar and concrete shelters were built. These were part of NATO’s rapid response plan. A new control tower and passenger terminal were also added.
Most of Værløse Air Base closed on April 1, 2004. The last flying units relocated to other bases. Today, the area is undergoing residential redevelopment. The North Camp has been transformed into a residential area called Laanshøj. The Danish Culture Agency now uses some of the North Camp for exhibitions. The South Camp is also being redeveloped into a mixed-use residential neighborhood.
Today, you can still explore the open landscape of Flyvestation Værløse. The 3 km long runway remains. It is now used for walking, cycling, and other recreational activities. The old hangars and Air Force buildings stand as relics of a different time. You can even camp here, experiencing the unique blend of history and nature.
Værløse Air Base offers a haunting yet captivating experience. It is a place where the past is palpable. It is a place where nature reclaims its space. Værløse is a reminder of Denmark’s aviation legacy.