Belgium to hand over first two F-16s to Ukraine this year
Belgium will supply the Ukrainian Air Force with two F-16 fighter jets in 2025 and two more in 2026. This was stated by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, confirming Brussels' intention to become one of the largest suppliers of combat aircraft to the Ukrainian army.
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The transfer of aircraft will take place in stages as Belgium receives new F-35 fighters. After they arrive, Belgian F-16s will be gradually transferred to Ukraine. According to De Wever, no delays are expected on the Belgian side.
In total, Belgium plans to provide Ukraine with up to 30 F-16s. Initially, the country was limited to participating in the training of Ukrainian pilots and providing logistics, but later agreed to provide combat aircraft.
Illustrative image of an F-16 aircraft. Illustration: AFP
Deliveries are expected to continue until 2028. The main factor affecting the delivery schedule remains the delay in the delivery of F-35s. The Belgian government signed the contract for their purchase in 2018, but actual deliveries have been delayed. The first F-35 is currently being used for pilot training at Luke Air Force Base in the United States.
Source: RBC.ua
