The transfer of F-16 fighter jets from Denmark to Ukraine is delayed. The delay period is about six months.
What is reason for delay in providing Ukraine with F-16
The publication Berlingske with reference to the Ministry of Defense of Denmark states that Ukraine has not fulfilled a number of conditions for the use of the combat aircraft that were to be transferred.
It is known that Ukraine was supposed to receive the first six fighter jets after the New Year, but now the schedule has shifted and delivery is scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.
The Danish Ministry of Defence explains that among the factors affecting delays is the training schedule of Ukrainian pilots, which depends on equipment and weather.
In addition, work continues within the framework of the international coalition of the Air Force to ensure the creation of the necessary material and technical base and infrastructure in Ukraine, the ministry added.
The publication notes that six Ukrainian pilots are being trained in Denmark. Eight more F-16s are expected to be delivered from Denmark to Ukraine in 2024, and five more in 2025. It is not yet known whether these deliveries will be delayed.
What is known about the F-16 for Ukraine
Earlier, Ukraine's allies announced the creation of an aviation coalition to provide the country with modern fighter jets, including F-16s. The coalition was led by the Netherlands and Denmark.
Recently, it was officially announced that the first group of Ukrainian pilots has completed the basic training programme in the UK and started training on F-16 fighter jets in Denmark.
On 22 December, the Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, announced that the Dutch government had decided to prepare the first 18 F-16 fighter jets for delivery to Ukraine.
Yesterday, Norway announced that the first Norwegian F-16s to be used by Ukrainian pilots had arrived in Denmark.
