Netherlands to transfer F-16 simulators to Ukraine for pilot training

The Netherlands will soon transfer F-16 fighter jet simulators to Ukraine to support pilot training, Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced.

Brekelmans said Ukraine is facing an extremely difficult winter and stressed the importance of continued international assistance, Caliber.Az reports per Ukrainian media. 

"Over the past few weeks, the Netherlands has provided hundreds of millions of euros in aid in the form of drones and ammunition. Today, I can also announce that we will transfer F-16 simulators as we continue to assist Ukraine in operating these aircraft," says Brekelmans.

He added that Dutch support for Ukraine would remain at current levels over the long term and would be reflected in the new government’s budget.

"And this will also be included in the new government's budget. So we can assure our allies and partners that we support Ukraine not only today and tomorrow, but also in the long term," the Minister adds.

Brekelmans declined to provide further operational details, noting that such information could be of value to Russia.

The Netherlands is part of an F-16 coalition established alongside Denmark, Norway and other allies to support Ukraine’s acquisition and operation of the aircraft. The coalition includes not only the transfer of fighter jets but also the training of Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel.

Denmark began training eight Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets in August 2023 as part of the initiative.

By Sabina Mammadli