United to win: Ukraine to receive three F-16 fighter jets from Belgium by year’s end
F-16 fighter jet with weapons. Photo: Air Force of Ukraine's armed forces
Belgium will deliver three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of 2026 under an expedited procedure.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyi announced the delivery, according to Rubryka.
According to the Ukrainian head of state, in addition to agreements regarding the aircraft themselves, Ukraine has already received urgent batches of F-16 ammunition from Belgium and other partner countries, including Spain.
"As Russia escalates daily, we must add capabilities to shoot down aerial targets and protect people," the president emphasized.
Zelenskyi thanked the Belgian government and Prime Minister Bart De Wever for supporting Ukraine in response to Russian attacks.
Background
In May 2025, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken stated that the Ukrainian Air Force could receive F-16 fighter jets from Belgium earlier than planned. However, he did not specify an exact delivery date. He added that Belgium would play an active role in the "Coalition of the Willing."
Belgium previously committed to providing 30 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by 2028 as it transitions to next-generation F-35 fighters. Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib initially noted that the first fighters should arrive in Ukraine "by the end of the year" [referring to the end of 2024 – ed.]
However, officials postponed the decision to transfer F-16 fighters to Ukraine until 2026 as Belgium awaits delivery of its replacement F-35s. In the meantime, Belgium approved a new aid package for Ukraine, including 100 million euros to maintain and support F-16 fighter jets.
