Supply of F-16s doubtless, however choice has but to be made

It’s doubtless that the Netherlands will provide F-16s to Ukraine, Protection Minister Kajsa Ollongren hinted on Friday after the Council of Ministers. The Netherlands has already promised to coach Ukrainian pilots within the plane “and then you definately assume that Ukraine will even fly the F-16 sooner or later. That requires a separate choice.” Press company Bloomberg experiences on the premise of nameless sources that the Netherlands will in all probability provide units.

The Netherlands is now making the change to the F-35, also called the Joint Strike Fighter. In response to Ollongren, F-16s will subsequently be out there “at a sure second”. She does emphasize, nonetheless, {that a} choice nonetheless must be taken by the nations which can be working collectively. The Netherlands is working intently with Denmark, Belgium and the UK on this space. Norway, Poland and Portugal have now additionally joined the alliance.

Pilots are first skilled in Denmark after which presumably at different areas. The minister can not say what number of Dutch pilots will contribute to the coaching. Additionally it is not identified how lengthy the coaching lasts. “We should discover out a bit collectively. Ukraine will undoubtedly be capable to ship skilled pilots, however we’ve to see what they will do.”