Belgium to Transfer F-16 Fighter Jets to Ukraine by End of Year

Belgium pledged to deliver three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of 2026, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on September 29, amid Russia's escalating aggression against the country. Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine has already received crucial supplies of ammunition for F-16s from Belgium and other allies, including Spain.

The advanced fighter jets play a vital role in Ukraine's multi-layered air defense, effectively countering threats from Shahed drones and cruise missiles. Speaking after the Ukrainian government secured the F-16 transfer agreement with Belgium, Zelensky expressed gratitude to the Belgian Prime Minister and the country's government for their swift action in response to Russia's relentless attacks on the Ukrainian populace.

Since the ongoing war entered its fourth year, Ukraine has found it increasingly challenging to obtain much-needed Western military support in the face of escalating Russian ballistic and drone assaults. The nation received its inaugural batch of F-16 jets in July 2024, following Denmark, the Netherlands, and other foreign allies' formation of the fighter jet coalition for Kyiv.

F-16s are versatile aircraft, utilized in both offensive and defensive operations, including intercepting Russian missiles and drones during aerial strikes on Ukraine and launching missiles and bombs at Russian military positions along the frontline. As of June, Ukraine reportedly operates up to 39 F-16 jets, accounting for any combat losses, according to Defense Express, a Ukrainian information and consulting firm that regularly provides war and military analysis.

By 2030, Ukraine aims to bolster its F-16 inventory, potentially reaching between 96 and 129 aircraft, alongside incorporating French Mirage and Swedish Gripen fighter jets, as per Defense Express' projections. Zelensky emphasized that his government will expedite the process of procuring these aircraft.