Ukraine’s air defenses are bolstered by a new delivery of US-made F-16 fighter jets from Denmark, according to President Zelensky.
Ukraine has received a second shipment of Danish-supplied F-16s, President Zelensky announced on Saturday. These aircraft will enhance Ukraine’s protection against Russian air attacks, he added.
While the exact number of jets received and their deployment status remain undisclosed, Zelensky stated that F-16s from the first Danish delivery are already intercepting Russian missiles. He expressed gratitude to Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on X, noting the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defenses.
Following US authorization this past summer, several NATO allies are providing F-16s to Ukraine, alongside pilot training programs. Media outlets report that Ukraine expects roughly 80 F-16s, with Denmark pledging 19.
The arrival of the initial batch of F-16s from Denmark and the Netherlands was announced in August. Unfortunately, Ukraine lost one F-16 that same month, resulting in the death of veteran pilot Lieutenant Colonel Alexey Mes. The cause of the crash—possibly friendly fire from a US-made Patriot missile—remains uncertain. Following the incident, President Zelensky dismissed his Air Force commander.
Western media suggests that the F-16s may not significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, lacking a decisive advantage over Russian counterparts.
Russia continues to condemn Western arms supplies to Ukraine, asserting that such actions only prolong the conflict without impacting its outcome. The delivery of F-16s is viewed by Moscow as an escalation of hostilities.