On October 11, 2023, the United States announced its intention to enhance the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force to better defend against Russian hostilities, according to Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III. The initiative was revealed following the 16th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Brussels and is part of a broader effort involving multiple coalitions to strengthen Ukraine’s military power.
Austin specified that the U.S. will work closely with Ukraine and other coalition partners to focus on upgrading Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets. Denmark and the Netherlands have also committed to co-leading this initiative, aiming to bolster Ukraine’s aerial defense capabilities.
Both European nations had previously committed to providing Ukraine with F-16 aircraft, and Norway has now joined the effort to equip Ukrainian pilots with these advanced U.S.-manufactured jets. The U.S. is actively participating in the training of Ukrainian pilots and aircrews for the operation and maintenance of these fighters. Additionally, Belgium announced on the same day its intentions to deliver F-16s to Ukraine by 2025, as reported by Air Recognition on October 11, 2023.