Værløse Air Base

The closure was a direct result of the Danish Defence Agreement of 2000-2004 (Forsvarsforliget 2000-2004). This political agreement initiated a major restructuring and centralization of the Danish Armed Forces following the end of the Cold War. The goal was to create a more modern and efficient military, which involved closing several bases and consolidating units. Operations from Værløse, primarily the helicopter wing, were relocated to other bases, mainly Karup Air Base.

The former air base has been completely transformed into a new multi-purpose urban district. The vast area is now a mix of residential housing, commercial businesses, and large public recreational spaces. Key uses include:
- **Filmstationen:** The large, historic hangars have been converted into a major film studio complex, where numerous Danish films and television series are produced.
- **Residential Area:** Large sections, particularly the former south camp (Sydlejren), have been developed into modern housing.
- **Recreation:** The extensive runway and taxiway system has been preserved and is a popular destination for recreational activities such as cycling, roller-skating, running, land sailing, and kite flying.
- **Nature:** Parts of the area have been designated as nature reserves, preserving the local flora and fauna.
- **Cultural Heritage:** The Danish National Museum uses one of the large hangars as a storage facility for its collections.
- **Limited Aviation:** A small, designated part of the original airfield is still used by Værløse Flying Club (Værløse Flyveklub) for ultralight and model aircraft. The ICAO code DK-0062 refers to this private, recreational use and not a public airport.

Værløse Air Base was one of Denmark's most important and historic military airfields. Its history began in 1910 as an army camp, with the airfield itself being constructed in 1934. During World War II, it was seized by the invading German forces on April 9, 1940, and the Luftwaffe significantly expanded and used it throughout the occupation. After the war, it became a cornerstone of the newly established Royal Danish Air Force (RDAF) in 1950. Throughout the Cold War, it served as the headquarters for the RDAF's Tactical Air Command East. It was most famous for being the primary base for the RDAF's helicopter fleet, including the iconic Sikorsky S-61A search and rescue (SAR) helicopters of Eskadrille 722 (Squadron 722). It also hosted transport squadrons operating aircraft such as the C-47, C-54, and later the C-130 Hercules.

There are zero plans or prospects for reopening Værløse as a public, commercial, or military airport. The extensive and permanent redevelopment of the site for residential, commercial, and recreational purposes makes any return to significant aviation operations impossible. The future of the site is firmly established as a civilian urban district.