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.

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