The Netherlands completed its donation of F-16 fighter aircraft to Ukraine with the departure of the final batch on 26 May.

The last aircraft left from Volkel Air Base for Belgium, where they will undergo final preparations before delivery to Ukrainian forces, according to the Ministry of Defense report. 

Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans oversaw the departure ceremony, marking the end of the Dutch F-16 program as the country transitions to F-35 aircraft. The minister described the moment as both significant and bittersweet, noting the aircraft’s decades of service with the Dutch air force.

“I could not have thought of a better destination than Ukraine. Because of the daily Russian air attacks, the F-16s are vital for Ukraine. It enables them to keep Russian aggression at a distance for us as well,” Brekelmans said.

While military aircraft transitions typically require years during peacetime, the Ukrainian air force completed the F-16 conversion in record time. Brekelmans credited both Ukrainian pilots and technicians, as well as Dutch personnel, for the rapid implementation.

Ukrainian forces have already deployed the aircraft operationally, according to the Defense Ministry. The jets have intercepted cruise missiles and drones in combat situations, with officials stating lives have been saved as a result. The ministry noted that F-16s provide superior battlefield awareness and survivability compared to the Soviet-era aircraft previously used by Ukraine’s air force.

Dutch support continues through comprehensive logistics packages including pilot training, spare parts, ammunition and fuel supplies.

The Netherlands operates the European F-16 Training Center in Romania using 18 Dutch aircraft, with plans to establish additional ground crew training facilities in the same country.