The Netherlands will soon deliver F-16 fighter jet simulators to Ukraine for pilot training, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced in Brussels while responding to journalists' questions.
Brekelmans emphasized that Ukraine faces an extremely difficult winter. "Over the past few weeks, the Netherlands has provided hundreds of millions of euros in aid in the form of drones and ammunition. Today, I can also announce that we will transfer F-16 simulators as we continue to assist Ukraine in operating these aircraft," says Brekelmans.
The Dutch official declined to provide specifics, noting that such details constitute valuable information for Russia as well. He added that long-term support levels will be maintained at the volumes provided in recent years and will be incorporated into the new government's budget. "So we can assure our allies and partners that we support Ukraine not only today and tomorrow, but also in the long term," Brekelmans said.
Denmark, together with the Netherlands, Norway and other allies, established the F-16 fighter jet aviation coalition for Ukraine, which includes aircraft deliveries as well as training for Ukrainian pilots and technicians. Denmark began training eight Ukrainian pilots on F-16s in August 2023.
Part of Denmark's F-16 fleet has already arrived in Ukraine, with additional batches scheduled to arrive gradually, according to available information. The United States has signed a contract for repair and maintenance of Ukrainian F-16 fighters in Belgium, valid through 2029.
Ukrainian military officials and partners stress that these aircraft significantly enhance Ukraine's ability to defend its airspace and perform more complex aerial missions.
