Ukraine receives initial batch of Dutch F-16s, more to follow in coming months

The Netherlands has delivered its first F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, as announced by Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans during an unannounced visit to Kharkiv on 6 October, Liga reported.

This announcement follows Ukraine’s earlier receipt of up to ten F-16s around early August. Earlier, Denmark committed to donating 19 F-16 jets, and the Netherlands pledged 24 aircraft. Both countries have spearheaded an international coalition to supply Ukraine with F-16s. Norway also announced it would donate six F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. It wasn’t immediately clear whether Denmark or the Netherlands supplied the initial batch of F-16s. The loss of an F-16 in an accident on 26 August appears to have grounded Ukraine’s F-16 fleet, as no official reports of their use have emerged since.

Brekelmans stated,

“This is urgently needed. In Kharkiv, I saw the damage from Russian air strikes and heard frequent air raid sirens.”

The remaining jets from the total of 24 F-16s promised by the Netherlands will arrive “in the coming months,” according to the minister’s announcement.

Ukraine’s Defense Minister Rustem Umerov discussed enhancing cooperation within the aviation coalition with the Netherlands’ Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, focusing on crew training and the supply of weapons and spare parts, as reported by Ukrinform.

Umerov expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ support, highlighting the significance of F-16s in Ukrainian skies as a testament to the Dutch people’s and government’s unwavering backing against Russian aggression. He also noted their shared commitment to further bolster cooperation in these areas.

For over two years, Ukraine has sought US-made F-16 fighter jets to enhance its air defenses against Russia’s air superiority. Following the United States’ approval last fall, training for Ukrainian pilots has been underway in Denmark, Britain, and the US. Last fall, Denmark, Norway, and the Netherlands committed to supplying Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. Currently, the total number of pledged F-16s is about 80, according to various media reports.

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