Ukraine to begin F-16 operations this summer

Ukraine's military will begin flying operational F-16 fighter jets later this summer, according to a joint statement from the White House, Denmark and the Netherlands.

The Danish and Dutch governments are giving the country the jets with support from the United States, according to the statement, and Belgium and Norway have committed to supplying more aircraft.

President Joe Biden, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof are co-leaders of the Air Force Capability Coalition for Ukraine.

“We are committed to further enhancing Ukraine’s air capabilities, which will include squadrons of modern fourth-generation F-16 multirole aircraft,” the co-leaders said. “The coalition intends to support their sustainment and armament as well as further associated training for pilots to enhance operational effectiveness.”

Military support for Ukraine as it continues its more than two-year battle against Russia’s invasion is a key issue for NATO leaders as they meet this week in Washington, DC.

Ukrainian pilots began training on F-16s in the U.S. last year.

Many lawmakers last year urged DOD to send U.S. F-16s to Ukraine, but the Biden administration and allied countries hesitated to provide the jets.

Last week, the Defense Department announced the most recent aid package to Ukraine: $2.3 billion for air defense interceptors and other capabilities.