Netherlands delivered the first F-16s to Ukraine

The Netherlands delivers the first of 24 promised F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine as part of the Aviation Coalition.

The Dutch Ministry of Defence reported on this.

It is noted that the rest of the fighter jets will be transferred “in the coming months”.

“For the first time I can officially announce that the first Dutch F-16s have been delivered to Ukraine. This is extremely necessary. In Kharkiv, I saw the destruction caused by Russian air strikes and heard frequent air raid alerts. The rest of the 24 fighter jets will be delivered in the coming months,” wrote Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans on X network.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov, following talks with the Dutch delegation led by Brekelmans, thanked the Netherlands for its comprehensive assistance in protecting Ukraine from Russian aggression.

“The F-16s in our skies are a testament to the unwavering support of the people and government of the Kingdom,” Umierov emphasized.

The Minister also announced agreements with the Netherlands to strengthen cooperation within the aviation coalition. In particular, it concerns the training of the Ukrainian crews and the supply of weapons and spare parts for the aircraft.

The Netherlands has also announced that it would allocate €400 million for reconnaissance, strike, and other drones for Ukraine.

This is part of the Drone Coalition with the international partners, which includes other countries besides the Netherlands.

F-16s from the Netherlands

The Netherlands has officially approved the transfer of 24 F-16 fighter jets and seven jet engines to Ukraine. They are also providing spare parts and equipment for the maintenance and repair of these fighter jets, worth a total of €80 million.

As previously reported, the Netherlands is not opposed to Ukraine’s use of the transferred F-16 fighter jets for the strikes on Russian territory.

In addition, the Netherlands is financing the purchase of armament for Ukrainian F-16s. On March 21, 2024, it was announced that €150 million would be allocated for the purchase of weapons. On July 30, 2024, an additional €300 million was allocated.