Lithuanian FM announces arrival of first batch of long-awaited F-16 jets in Ukraine

The first batch of long-awaited F-16 jets has arrived in Ukraine.

This delivery is expected to help Kyiv rebuild its depleted air force, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

The F-16s, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, have long been sought by Ukraine due to their combat capabilities and widespread use. The fighter jets are equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry a range of bombs, rockets, and missiles.

"F-16s in Ukraine. Another impossible thing turned out to be totally possible," Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis remarked on X, formerly known as Twitter.

A US official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the delivery was complete. Ukraine's Air Force has yet to comment on the development.

Denmark has pledged to donate a total of 19 F-16 jets, while the Netherlands has committed to supplying 24 aircraft. Both nations have been key players in forming an international coalition to provide Ukraine with these fighter jets. Additionally, Norway has announced it will donate six F-16s.

Pilots and ground staff in Ukraine have been undergoing training by Western partners for several months.

Amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, which began with its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine's military has relied on a relatively small fleet of Soviet-era jets. Ukrainian officials view the addition of F-16s as a crucial enhancement for their Air Force.

However, analysts and officials caution that while the F-16s represent a significant upgrade, they are unlikely to be a decisive factor in the conflict.