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The aim of this thesis is to describe and compare Denmark´s and Iceland´s marine strategies in the Arctic region using Jacob Börresens theory The Seapower of the Coastal State. The Arctic region has for a long time been a low-intensity area but is nowadays characterized by increasing great power competition. This is a result of melting ice which has opened up new sea lines of communications and created opportunities to exploit natural resources. This study uses a  qualitative comparative  analysis and document analysis in order to describe how Denmark and Iceland have designed their marine strategies using public defense documents. 

The result of the study states that Denmark´s strategy can be described through Börresens perspective on the Coastal State but is also striving to be an independent actor in the Arctic region. Iceland´s strategy is characterized by Börresens theory but is dependent on alliances and bilateral agreements. Furthermore, the results indicate that both nations prioritize maritime surveillance and are forced to adopt hybrid strategies to balance foreign interests against increasing great power competition.