The first batch of US-built F-16 fighter jets is currently being transferred to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands and will be flying over Ukrainian skies this summer, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced.
Speaking at an event on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington, Blinken mentioned that a comprehensive support package for Ukraine would be unveiled in the coming days, aimed at paving the way for Ukraine’s NATO membership.
“I’m also pleased to announce that as we speak, the transfer of F-16 jets is underway, coming from Denmark, coming from the Netherlands,” Blinken said.
“And those jets…will be flying in the skies of Ukraine this summer to ensure that Ukraine can continue to effectively defend itself against Russian aggression.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated last week that he aimed to double Ukraine’s air defense capacity over the summer and that his country needed at least seven additional Patriot systems for protection.
NATO members have announced the delivery of five additional Patriot and other strategic air defense systems to assist Ukraine. More aid announcements are expected at this week’s summit in Washington, which marks the alliance’s 75th anniversary.
A joint statement from the leaders of the United States, Denmark, and the Netherlands confirmed that the Danish and Dutch governments are in the process of donating American-made F-16s to Ukraine, with support from the United States.
“We are grateful to Belgium and Norway for committing to provide further aircraft, and to the other members of the Air Force Capability Coalition for their support,” the statement said, adding that the group is committed to further enhancing Ukraine’s air capabilities.
