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The Netherlands will provide Ukraine with at least 13 more F16 Viper fighter jets, Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren announced today. During a previous visit by Ukrainian President Zelensky earlier this year, the Netherlands had already agreed to transfer five fighters, possibly as many as 18, which has now been confirmed.
Before this new decision, the Netherlands had already moved the first five F16 fighters to the European Viper Training Center in Romania. This center was ceremoniously opened last month by the Dutch and Romanian defense ministers.
Ollongren said: “With F16s, Ukraine can better defend itself against Russian attacks.” This is extremely important as there appears to be no end to the ongoing Russian aggression. That’s why we remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine.”
The export of military goods requires obtaining a permit to prevent unwanted use. This also applies to F16. The Dutch Foreign Ministry evaluates the aircraft based on the European Union's criteria for arms exports. On this basis, the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation decides whether to issue an export license.
In addition to this license grant, some criteria must be met before the aircraft can actually be delivered. This includes, for example, the training of Ukrainian personnel and an appropriate infrastructure in Ukraine.
Before transfer to Ukraine, all aircraft undergo inspection and, if necessary, modifications. In addition, some aircraft require major overhaul.
From the press office of the Dutch Ministry of Defense