Belgium Commits to Supplying Ukraine with 30 F-16 Fighter Jets in Defense Policy Shift

Belgium announces plans to supply Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets, marking a significant shift in defense policy to bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.

Belgium's Foreign Minister, Hadja Lahbib, has announced that Belgium will supply Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets. The first batch of these aircraft is set to be delivered before the end of the year. This marks a significant policy shift for Belgium, which had previously avoided specifying the number and timeline for the delivery of these jets.

The pledge will be officially formalized today in Brussels during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This move aligns with Belgium's commitment as part of the F-16 Coalition, a group that includes the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. This coalition was established to collectively provide Ukraine with dozens of combat aircraft to support its defense efforts against ongoing conflicts.

Initially, Belgium's role in the coalition focused on training Ukrainian pilots and providing technical and logistical support. However, last autumn, the Belgian government committed to transferring a specific number of F-16s to Ukraine once Belgium received its new F-35 fighters. The arrival of the F-35s will free up the older F-16s for transfer.

The delivery of the F-16s to Ukraine will be spread out until 2028. This phased approach is necessary because the Ukrainian Air Force currently lacks enough trained personnel to operate Western military equipment effectively. Training and preparation are crucial for the successful integration of these advanced fighter jets into Ukraine's military operations.

Belgium's decision to supply the F-16s is a response to Ukraine's urgent need for modern combat aircraft to bolster its defense capabilities. The F-16s, known for their versatility and combat effectiveness, will enhance Ukraine's ability to defend its airspace and support ground operations.

This commitment by Belgium reflects a broader trend among NATO and European Union countries to support Ukraine with military aid. By providing these aircraft, Belgium is contributing to the collective efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense and deter further aggression.

In summary, Belgium's pledge to supply 30 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine represents a notable shift in its defense policy and underscores the country's support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts. The phased delivery will ensure that Ukraine can integrate these jets into its military effectively, enhancing its overall defense capabilities.