Final Dutch F-16 Fighter Jets for Ukraine Leave Netherlands
The last batch of Dutch F-16 fighter jets designated for Ukraine has officially left the Netherlands, marking a significant milestone in the country’s defense support to Kyiv, The Gaze reports, citing the Dutch Miinistry of Defense.
On May 26, the aircraft departed Volkel Air Base for Belgium, where they will undergo final preparations before being delivered to Ukraine. With this shipment, the Netherlands has fulfilled its pledge of 24 F-16 jets to assist Ukraine in defending its airspace against Russian aggression.
Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans, who attended the departure, called the event “a nostalgic moment,” noting the F-16’s long-standing service within the Dutch Air Force.
“But now that we are transitioning to the F-35, I couldn’t think of a better destination for our F-16s than Ukraine,” he said. “Due to daily Russian airstrikes, these F-16s are of vital importance. They allow Ukraine to push back Russian aggression — and not just for them, but for us as well.”
Brekelmans praised the speed at which the Ukrainian Air Force transitioned to operating the F-16 — a process that typically takes years during peacetime.
“This has now been done in record time,” he said. “It’s a remarkable achievement by Ukrainian pilots and technicians. But also on the Dutch side, our personnel have worked incredibly hard to make this happen. I have great appreciation for that.”
According to Ukrainian officials, F-16s have already contributed to the war effort by shooting down cruise missiles and drones, saving lives and providing critical air defense capabilities.
The Netherlands remains deeply involved in the multinational F-16 coalition, alongside Denmark and the United States, helping Ukraine integrate and maintain its new aircraft fleet. Dutch support will continue in the form of pilot and crew training, spare parts, fuel, and ammunition.
As The Gaze previously reported, Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said that the Netherlands will allocate €271 million for large-calibre artillery shells for Ukraine.
Read more on The Gaze: What is the Dutch Model of Financing Military Assistance and how does it Work?