Denmark announces six-month delay in F-16 fighter jet donation to Ukraine

As part of a collective effort by allies to strengthen Ukraine's defenses against Russian air superiority, Denmark committed to providing a total of 19 F-16s, with the first batch initially set to be delivered by the end of 2023.

However, the Danish Defense Ministry has revised the delivery schedule, indicating that the first six fighter jets will now be delivered during the second quarter of the year. The remaining aircraft are expected to follow suit by 2025.

Denmark, in collaboration with countries such as Romania, France, the U.K., and the U.S., plays a crucial role in training Ukrainian pilots. Currently, six Ukrainian pilots are undergoing F-16 training in Denmark. The ministry highlighted that the adjusted delivery timeline is contingent upon various conditions, including the successful completion of Ukrainian pilot training and the availability of logistics and infrastructure in Ukraine to service the aircraft.

Simultaneously, Ukrainian pilots undergoing F-16 training in the United States are anticipated to conclude their program later in 2024, according to a statement from a U.S. Defense Department spokesperson.

Denmark, in the process of transitioning its F-16 fleet to new F-35 Joint Striker Fighters, is also experiencing delays in receiving the scheduled deliveries from Lockheed Martin Corp., the aircraft's producer. (ILKHA)