Belgium to deliver F-16s to Ukraine after pilot training completed – Defense Minister
global.espreso.tv
Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:13:00 +0300

RBC-Ukraine reported, citing a statement by Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken made during a conversation with journalists at NATO headquarters, that Belgium would indeed deliver F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. However, he noted that their readiness for use had not yet been confirmed, as pilot training was still required and would take about a month. Francken explained that the arrival of the aircraft would not mean their immediate deployment to Ukraine, but emphasized that all the promised F-16s would be delivered without question.According to him, pilot training and technical maintenance are mandatory steps before the transfer of aircraft to ensure their safety and effectiveness in use. This supply will be part of broader support for Ukraine from Belgium and NATO allies in the context of strengthening the country's defense capabilities.Ukraine has developed unique mobile systems for servicing F-16 fighter jets, which significantly speed up and simplify the suspension of ammunition.
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