Netherlands hands over first batch of F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters to Ukraine
Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Pieter Brekelmans has announced great news for the Ukrainian Air Force.
Here's What We Know
During his visit to Kharkiv, Ruben Brekelmans confirmed that the Netherlands has already delivered the first F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters to Ukraine.
The politician did not specify how many aircraft were included in the first batch, but promised that in the near future another 24 aircraft will arrive in Ukraine.
We will remind, in 2023, the Dutch government announced that it would transfer its F-16s to Ukraine.
For the first time I can officially announce that the first F-16s from the Netherlands have been delivered to Ukraine. This is extremely necessary. During my visit to Kharkiv, I saw the destruction caused by Russian air raids. Air raid sirens also sounded frequently. The remaining 24 aircraft will arrive in the coming months.
Voor het eerst kan ik officieel meedelen dat de eerste Nederlandse F16's aan Oekraïne zijn geleverd.
- Ruben Brekelmans (@DefensieMin) October 6, 2024
Dat is hoognodig. In mijn bezoek aan Kharkiv zag ik de schade van Russische luchtaanvallen en ging vaak het luchtalarm af.
De rest van de 24 toestellen volgt de komende maanden. pic.twitter.com/nO3Un63sNk
The Netherlands has abandoned F-16s, replacing them with modern F-35s.
In August 2024, Ukraine received its first F-16s, which were handed over by Denmark.
Flashback
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is a multirole light fighter of the fourth generation. It was developed by the American company General Dynamics. Due to its versatility and low cost, the F-16 is a success on the international market. It is in service with 24 countries. The F-16 is the most mass-produced fighter of the fourth generation. As of 2009, more than 4,400 have been built, and in 2016, more than 2,500 were in service.
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Source: Ruben Brekelmans
