The first batch of F-16 fighters from Western partners has arrived in Ukraine. These long-awaited aircraft can enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian military to repel attacks from Russian invaders.
Sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Bloomberg that the first American combat aircraft were scheduled to be delivered by the end of July, and the partners managed to meet this deadline. The sources also added that the first batch includes a small number of fighters.
It is currently unknown whether Ukrainian pilots, who have been training in other countries under the guidance of experienced instructors for the past few months, will be able to immediately “switch” to the combat aircraft, or if more time will be needed. The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine declined to comment on the delivery of the first fighters.
It took over a year for this delivery to become a reality. President Joe Biden abandoned his objections to sending F-16s to Ukraine last May, after repeated requests from both Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO allies to permit their transfer. This happened amid discussions about whether these fighters would provide a decisive advantage for Ukraine.
The process of transferring the aircraft was complicated by delays, issues with the supply of spare parts, and the language barrier between Ukrainian pilots and their foreign instructors. Another potential problem is the insufficient number of runways in Ukraine, and those that do exist are targets for Russian attacks.
Earlier this month, the White House website featured a statement from the members of the Aviation Coalition, announcing that the governments of Denmark and the Netherlands, with support from the United States, are delivering American-made F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.
“The process of delivering these fighter jets is already underway, and this summer Ukraine will begin flying the new aircraft. At this time, we cannot provide further details due to operational security concerns,” the statement reads.
Separately, it was noted that additional aircraft would be provided by Belgium and Norway. Furthermore, the statement added that the Coalition would support the maintenance and armament of the aircraft, as well as pilot training.
“We will continue to coordinate jointly to support Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against Russian aggression,” the statement noted.
Therefore, even a small batch of fighter jets can play an important role in this war, as it is certainly not the last one. Over time, Ukraine will be able to increase its potential and overcome Russia’s air superiority.
Source: bloomberg
