The Norwegian FM in Kiev stated that Norway, along with Denmark and the Netherlands, intends to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets upgraded for long-range strikes.
Norway, working with Denmark and the Netherlands, is getting ready to give Ukraine F-16 fighter jets that have been upgraded to carry out longer-range strikes. This was disclosed by Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on April 15 at a briefing with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv.
In spite of Ukraine's strong air defenses, Russian aircraft hold an advantage with longer-range capabilities at the frontline, where Ukraine seeks F-16 fighter fighters to oppose. Pending the conclusion of pilot training, the United States authorized the transfer of F-16s from Denmark and the Netherlands in August of last year. Ukraine still lacks an F-16 fleet, although pilots and ground crew are being trained there.
"The updated and well-maintained Norwegian F-16s will be transferred." We are teaching Ukrainian pilots with our colleagues from Denmark and the Netherlands. The Norwegian minister stated, "Perhaps even longer-range strike capabilities, which are very important for Ukraine now, will exist."
In response to a question regarding the quantity and state of the F-16 fighter planes, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide made a significant pledge.
"I can't give you an exact figure when you ask how many will come from Norway," he said.
He mentioned that the aircraft had both upgraded models that were better suited for warfare and fuselages that needed repairs, but he refrained from sharing exact numbers.
He asserts that the most important factor is the quality of the weaponry the aircraft will be outfitted with; Eide said that the ones that are in flying condition will have "the latest weapons." Additionally, the Foreign Minister did not give a timeline for the fighter jets' delivery to Ukraine.
According to earlier media reports, as part of an air coalition, Norway is scheduled to give 22 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Certain aircraft will function as providers of spare components to aid in the upkeep and restoration of other F-16s that have been given to the Ukrainian Air Force. Together with the actual fighter jets, Ukraine is also anticipated to receive jet engines, training tools, spare parts, and other supplies.
