Belgium has announced that it will accelerate the delivery of F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter jets to Ukraine, saying that the first aircraft will be delivered by the end of 2024. The decision, announced by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, was prompted by Russia’s intensified actions against the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Currently, there are 53 F-16s in Belgium, but the exact number of aircraft to be transferred to Ukraine remains unknown.
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American lightweight multirole fighter that is distinguished by its versatility and affordability. It is currently in service in 24 countries.
The Belgian Prime Minister spoke on VRT: “We have decided to transfer the entire F-16 fleet to Ukraine in the medium term.” Belgium becomes the third EU country to actively plan to supply fighter jets to Ukraine, following the example of the Netherlands and Denmark. Norway has also recently announced the transfer of 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in various states of serviceability.
Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder noted that the transfer of the aircraft will take place “as soon as possible,” and it will not pose a threat to Belgium’s defense and security. Earlier there were rumors that Belgium could start delivering these fighters no earlier than 2025.
In addition to the F-16, Belgium also plans to supply Ukraine with air defense equipment, including missiles compatible with fighter jets. All these measures are financed by frozen Russian assets, which amount to about 200 million euros in Belgium.
