18-8-2023 (WASHINGTON) In a significant move to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities in the face of growing Russian threats, the United States has granted approval for the transfer of F-16 fighter jets from Denmark and the Netherlands. These jets are poised to reinforce Ukraine’s defences against potential Russian incursions and will be dispatched once pilot training is concluded, as revealed by a senior US official on Thursday (August 17).
Ukraine has been actively seeking US-manufactured F-16 fighter jets to counterbalance Russia’s air superiority in the region. The approval from Washington carries profound strategic implications, signalling unwavering US support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Crucially, the United States has issued official assurances to Denmark and the Netherlands, the primary countries leading the training coalition, that all essential third-party transfer requests pertaining to the F-16s destined for Ukraine will be expedited. This proactive step underscores the determination to ensure a swift and efficient delivery process.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has personally corresponded with his Danish and Dutch counterparts, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to the cause. The letters, as viewed by Reuters, provide unequivocal assurance that the transfer requests will receive the necessary approvals. Blinken’s letter states, “I am writing to express the United States’ full support for both the transfer of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine and for the training of Ukrainian pilots by qualified F-16 instructors.”
Blinken further emphasized the critical nature of Ukraine’s ability to defend itself against persistent Russian aggression and violations of its territorial sovereignty. The approval of these transfer requests holds the potential to empower Ukraine to promptly harness its newly acquired capabilities, aligning with the completion of pilot training.
While US President Joe Biden endorsed training programmes for Ukrainian pilots on F-16s in May, specific timelines for the supply of these fighter jets have yet to be disclosed.
