Ukraine to ‘Shortly’ Receive Dutch-Donated F-16s, Patriot Air Defense Systems

The Netherlands has confirmed the imminent delivery of F-16 fighters and Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, following a two-day official visit by Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans and Foreign Affairs counterpart Caspar Veldkamp on July 7.

“The promised F-16s will not be long in coming,” Brekelmans stated.

During the visit, Brekelmans met with President Zelensky and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in Odesa. He witnessed the destruction caused by Russian missile attacks on grain and energy plants.

“These devastations once again demonstrate the need for robust air defense,” Brekelmans said. “It is crucial to help Ukraine with this, both bilaterally and through various coalitions. The call for additional systems has fortunately led to results. We will also continue to support Ukraine in shaping its own armed forces for the long term. At the same time, the Netherlands can also learn a lot from the innovative and creative power of the Ukrainian armed forces.”

The minister announced that Ukraine will shortly receive the previously promised Dutch Patriot radar and three Patriot launchers. For operational reasons, the exact timing cannot be disclosed. Additionally, the Netherlands will make a donation of €10 million to the IT Capability Coalition, on top of the previously promised €10 million. This funding will be used to purchase additional IT resources for the Ukrainian armed forces.

Brekelmans also provided an update on the delivery of the F-16s. "The operational deployment of the F-16s is an important improvement of the current Ukrainian capabilities in the fight against Russian aggression. It is necessary to train personnel and have the infrastructure in order. We are working hard on that now." Due to operational safety, no statements are being made about the delivery schedule of the 24 Dutch F-16 aircraft.