Dutch F-16s set to defend Kharkiv from constant bombardments
The Netherlands has confirmed that Ukrainian forces will receive their first F-16 fighter jets this summer, The Guardian reported on June 20.
General Arnoud Stallmann, a Dutch air force commander, emphasized the extensive preparation involved, from pilot training to maintenance, during a recent closure of a Ukrainian Air Force maintenance program.
"The training regimen was comprehensive; it's not just the pilots who need training but also technicians and maintainers," General Stallmann explained at a base where the training took place.
Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren reiterated the complexity of the F-16 systems compared to previous Ukrainian equipment, stressing the importance of thorough training and system understanding. "The F-16s are really much more complicated than the systems the Ukrainian Air Force were using so far. You cannot just hop over several steps; you have to take every step of the process," Ollongren stated.
The deployment of these jets is seen as a game-changer for the Ukrainian military, potentially altering Russian air combat tactics. "Once F-16s are operational in Ukrainian skies, Russians will be forced to change tactics," said Anatolii Khrapchynskyi, an aviation expert and former Ukrainian military pilot.
The Guardian highlighted that the F-16s will not only enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities but also provide significant offensive strength. Compared to Ukraine’s current fleet, the F-16 can carry a larger payload and is equipped with advanced radar systems that could diminish the current radar disadvantages experienced by Ukrainian forces.
Despite the challenges associated with integrating these advanced jets, the anticipation is high. "With F-16s, we can achieve parity in the sky above Ukraine and bring serious losses to Russian aviation in the border zone," Khrapchynskyi added.
The Netherlands and Denmark have pledged to jointly transfer 61 F-16s to Ukraine, following U.S. approval. Additional commitments from Norway and plans from Belgium to send jets in 2025 further bolster the support network for Ukraine's air defenses.
Dutch Defense Minister Ollongren has announced that the initial batch of jets will be sent in the autumn of 2024, with ongoing preparations ensuring that the Ukrainian pilots and ground staff are fully ready to leverage these high-tech aircraft upon delivery.
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