The Netherlands has officially completed the process of transferring F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. On May 26, 2025, the last aircraft of this type flew from Volkel Air Base to Belgium, where they will be prepared for operation by the Ukrainian military. This was reported by the Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands.
"This is a nostalgic moment because the F-16s have played an important role in our air force for decades. But now, as we say goodbye to them after the transition to the F-35, I could not think of a better destination than Ukraine. Because of the daily Russian air strikes, the F-16s are vital for Ukraine. They make it possible to deter Russian aggression and for us too," said Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
According to the Dutch Minister of Defense, the transfer of the fighters took place in record time, which was made possible thanks to the rapid training of Ukrainian pilots and technicians, as well as the efforts of Dutch specialists. The Netherlands will continue to support Ukraine within the framework of the F-16 program, providing pilot training, supply of spare parts, ammunition and fuel. The training of Ukrainian pilots is taking place in Romania, where 18 Dutch F-16s are used.
In total, the Netherlands has transferred 24 F-16 fighter jets and 7 spare jet engines to Ukraine. The first aircraft arrived in Ukraine in October 2024.
In addition to the Netherlands, several other countries have agreed to transfer these aircraft to Ukraine.
In particular, Denmark has promised to deliver 19 F-16s. 12 of them have already been delivered by the end of 2024, and the rest should be delivered by the end of this year.
Belgium has also committed to delivering 30 F-16 aircraft by 2028. However, according to Belgian Defense Minister Theo Franken, they "will try to deliver these fighters even earlier than planned."
Norway also promises to transfer these combat aircraft to Ukraine. According to the country's Defense Minister, Tore Sandvik, some of them are already in Ukraine, and by the end of 2025, Norway will transfer all the promised F-16s.
It was previously reported that Ukraine has already lost 3 such fighters.