Breaking News
Ukraine Increases Air Superiority with New Danish F-16 Fighter Jet Deliveries.
On December 7, 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the arrival of a second batch of F-16 fighter jets provided by Denmark. These aircraft strengthen the country's air defense capabilities against Russian missile attacks. According to Zelenskyy, these deliveries play a crucial role in protecting Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.
Danish F-16 Fighter Jet Deliveries to Ukraine (Picture source: Denmark MoD)
The F-16s supplied by Denmark are pivotal to Ukraine's air defense against Russian aggression. These versatile jets are used to intercept cruise missiles and drones launched by Russia, contributing to the protection of critical infrastructure and civilian populations. They are equipped with air-to-air missiles such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder for short-range engagements and the AIM-120 AMRAAM for medium-range targets, effectively neutralizing a variety of aerial threats. Additionally, the F-16s can carry air-to-ground missiles, expanding their capability to strike strategic ground targets. Integrating these fighters into Ukraine's arsenal significantly enhances its ability to secure its airspace and conduct offensive operations against enemy positions.
Denmark's deliveries of F-16s to Ukraine reflect substantial support for bolstering its air defense against Russian attacks. In August 2023, Denmark committed to supplying 19 fighter jets following U.S. approval. A first tranche of six aircraft was delivered in September 2023, followed by a second tranche of four in December 2024. These ten operational jets actively defend Ukraine's airspace, demonstrating Denmark's determined commitment to this conflict.
Since the beginning of Russia's invasion in February 2022, Denmark has provided significant military aid to Ukraine. In January 2023, Copenhagen decided to transfer all 19 of its CAESAR 8x8 self-propelled howitzers, some of which had not yet been delivered to Denmark at the time. In May 2023, Denmark, in collaboration with the Netherlands, announced the purchase of 14 Leopard 2 tanks for donation to Ukraine, thereby enhancing Ukraine's armored capabilities.
Beyond F-16s, CAESAR howitzers, and Leopard 2 tanks, Denmark has delivered a diverse range of military assistance accompanied by substantial financial support. In February 2024, Denmark provided 15,000 artillery shells, portable air defense systems (MANPADS Stinger), reconnaissance drones, counter-battery radars, and communication equipment. In May 2023, a $250 million package (1.7 billion DKK) included armored recovery vehicles, specialized demining equipment, and assault bridges for ground operations. In November 2024, Copenhagen invested €562 million (approximately $600 million) in procuring drones, munitions, and artillery systems directly from Ukraine's defense industry. These contributions highlight Denmark's strategic and financial commitment to enhancing Ukraine's military capabilities in the face of Russian aggression.
Notably, several European nations have provided or committed to providing F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine to bolster its air defense against Russian aggression. Denmark pledged 19 F-16s, delivering six in September 2023 and four in December 2024. The Netherlands announced the delivery of 24 F-16s, with the first arriving in October 2024. Norway supplied two F-16s for pilot training and plans to deliver six in total by the end of 2024. Belgium has committed to supplying 30 F-16s by 2028, with the first deliveries expected in late 2024. Currently, 16 F-16s are operational and deployed in Ukraine, actively participating in defense operations against Russian attacks. However, on August 26, 2024, Ukraine’s Air Force lost one F-16 during a mission to intercept Russian missiles, resulting in the pilot's death.