In a letter addressed to the House of Representatives today, Netherlands Minister of Defence Kajsa Ollongren announced that the Netherlands, along with several other European countries, is preparing to commence training Ukrainian pilots to operate F-16 fighter jets. A training center is being established in an Eastern European NATO member state to facilitate this initiative. Additionally, the Netherlands will continue its efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
Minister Ollongren, on behalf of the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, highlighted the Netherlands Ministry of Defence’s plan to provide F-16 training to Ukrainian pilots. Collaborating with Denmark and with the support of the United States, the Netherlands has been entrusted with coordinating European endeavors in this regard. The Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, the United Kingdom, industry representatives, and other stakeholders are currently determining the content of the F-16 training courses.
The plan comprises three key elements:
- Prompt provision of the initial F-16 conversion training courses for Ukrainian pilots.
- Language proficiency and initial flight training.
- Establishment of an F-16 training center in an Eastern European NATO member state.
This comprehensive plan aims to meet Ukraine’s long-term training needs effectively.
Initially, a limited number of Ukrainian pilots will undergo training, with the possibility of increasing the intake in the future.
In addition to training, the Netherlands remains committed to bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. Recent hostilities in Ukraine, including the destruction of the Nova Kakhovka dam and ongoing Russian attacks on civilian and military targets, emphasize the urgency of this support. The Netherlands, in collaboration with its allies, is actively contributing to these efforts.
The International Fund for Ukraine (IFU) has pledged 92 million euros for air defense, with the funds expected to be allocated before the end of this year. This measure was announced by the defense ministers of the Joint Expeditionary Force on June 13. Furthermore, during the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting on June 15, the Netherlands announced its contribution of 40 million euros toward a multilateral partnership to purchase air defense equipment. The equipment will be delivered to Ukraine in the very near future.
To enhance Ukraine’s integrated air defense capabilities, the Netherlands Ministry of Defence will procure four VERA-EG passive radar systems at a cost of 150 million euros. This state-of-the-art radar system enables detection, location, tracking, and identification of airborne, land, and maritime targets. These additional capabilities will augment the existing support provided by the Netherlands.
The Netherlands reaffirms its commitment to Ukraine’s defense and stands in solidarity with its allies in addressing the ongoing challenges in the region.