Ukraine has requested F-16 – modern Western fighters – practically from the first day of the war. In July 2024, news emerged about a possible transfer of these aircraft. The process of their arrival took almost a year and a half. They will work together with Western air defense complexes such as the Patriot and NASAMS, which are already in Ukraine.
What preceded
The path of the F-16 fighters to Ukraine was complex and lengthy, with many obstacles:
- delays
- spare parts issues
- language barrier between Ukrainian pilots and foreign instructors
- insufficient number of runways, vulnerable to Russian attacks
In total, the F-16s were agreed to be transferred by four countries:
- Netherlands (42 aircraft, some of them training)
- Denmark (19 units)
- Belgium (30 F-16 fighters by 2028)
- Norway (6 F-16 aircraft)
The exact number of aircraft transferred is currently unknown.
U.S. Perspective
The Netherlands and Denmark, together with the U.S., have informed that they are in the process of transferring F-16 fighters to Ukraine. Ukrainian pilots will begin flying them this summer. The first group of Ukrainian pilots completed training on the F-16 fighters in the U.S. and headed to Europe for additional preparation. White House spokesperson John Kirby did not confirm the information about the transfer of fighters, stating that according to the plans, they are expected to be in service by the end of the summer.
F-16 Combat Missions in Ukraine
The Western aircraft are already reported to be used for combat missions in Ukraine, particularly for air defense. Official Kiev has not yet confirmed this information.
Official Kiev’s Position
Kiev has not yet confirmed or denied the information about receiving F-16 fighter jets. Some allies are already actively discussing this on social media. Adviser to the President’s Office, Mykhailo Podoliak, stated that Ukraine will not officially confirm this information.
Russia’s Reaction
The Russian authorities aggressively reacted to the information about the transfer of Western fighter jets to Ukraine. Security Council Secretary Dmitry Medvedev warned of increased risks of a “nuclear apocalypse.” Russian President Vladimir Putin called the fighter jets a “legitimate target” for the Russian army.
Will F-16 Change the Situation on the Frontline?
Ukrainians are placing high hopes on the F-16, as these aircraft can intercept cruise missiles and enhance air defense. However, there are issues with the quantity of Patriot systems and missiles for them. American officials note that the F-16s are unlikely to provide a decisive advantage due to Russia’s powerful air defense systems. Some of the transferred aircraft will be kept at foreign airbases for their protection.
