Belgium to Transfer Three F-16 Jets to Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Tuesday that Belgium will transfer three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine before the end of the year. Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is pursuing an accelerated procedure to receive the aircraft to better protect the population against intensifying Russian attacks, noting the need to incorporate more capabilities to shoot down aerial targets.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has committed to making more than 50 aircraft available to Kyiv. This transfer coincides with Belgium renewing its own fleet with American F-35 fighters, although the arrival of the F-35s has caused some delivery delays. Ukraine has already received urgent F-16 ammunition from Belgium and Spain.

In addition to the fighter jets, Zelenskyy confirmed the recent delivery of a NASAMS air defense system provided by the United States and Norway. He also noted that ongoing talks are underway to secure additional missiles for the Patriot air defense system.