Netherlands Moves Forward with Plan to Donate F-16 Jets to Ukraine

The decision, aimed at bolstering Ukraine against Russian aggression, awaits export permit approval and requires Ukrainian pilot training.

The Dutch government is preparing to donate 18 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, a significant step in supporting the embattled nation against Russian aggression.
Dutch Defense Minister, Kajsa Ollongren, has sent a letter to parliament outlining the plan, which was first unveiled in the summer.
The move allows personnel and budget to be allocated to prepare the jets for delivery, although a timeline has not been specified.
Ukrainian pilots must complete F-16 training before the jets can be delivered, and infrastructure in Ukraine must also be prepared for the planes.
The Dutch government is yet to decide whether to grant an export permit for the planes, to prevent undesirable end use.