Ukraine to Receive its First F-16 From Denmark in Summer 2024

The Norwegian Armed Forces are preparing the donation of the first Danish F-16 aircraft to Ukraine, which are expected to be delivered in the coming summer months.

This was announced during a meeting between Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen and his Belgian ministerial colleague, Ludivine Dedonder, at the Fighter Wing in Skrydstrup on March 18. The two ministers discussed F-16 cooperation and attended training sessions with Ukrainian pilots.

The training of Ukrainian pilots and support personnel at Flyvestation Skrydstrup is taking place within the framework of the international air force coalition. Denmark leads the coalition along with the USA and the Netherlands, which was established last year and counts 16 member countries. Belgium, as a coalition member, contributes F-16 aircraft and instructors to Denmark's training efforts.

"The training of Ukrainian personnel is progressing well, and I am proud that Ukrainian pilots are training in Danish airspace in Danish F-16 aircraft. The progress of the training is largely due to invaluable contributions from countries such as Belgium, Norway, and Canada. We have exemplary cooperation in the coalition. I have spent the day in Skrydstrup engaging in a very fruitful discussion about F-16 cooperation with my Belgian ministerial colleague," said Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.

The goal of the training is to ensure that the Ukrainian Air Force has the best possible conditions to operate, service, and maintain the F-16 fighter jets donated by Denmark and other allies. As part of the international effort in support of Ukraine, the first F-16 training modules are now part of the EU's military training mission to assist Ukraine. This is crucial for coordinating the overall European effort in Ukraine.

"The total contribution from the countries in the fighter coalition sends an important signal about the unity behind the support for Ukraine. The donation of aircraft and the training of pilots are decisive and highly valued contributions to Ukraine in its fight, which we must continue to support for both Ukraine's sake and Europe's sake," said Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen.

In addition to the training, the Norwegian Armed Forces are preparing to donate the first Danish F-16 aircraft to Ukraine, which is expected to be delivered in the summer of 2024.