U.S. to expedite permits for other countries to transfer F-16s to Ukraine
25 August, 2023 F-16AM of the Royal Danish Air Force. Photo from open sources The United States will expedite permits for other countries to transfer their F-16 fighters to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
This became known following a telephone conversation between U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The conversation between the two presidents took place on Thursday, August 24, on the occasion of Ukraine's Independence Day.
"President Biden and President Zelenskyy discussed the commencement of training of Ukrainian fighter pilots and assurance of expedited approval for other nations to transfer their F-16s to Ukraine upon completion of training to increase Ukraine's defensive capabilities," the White House said in a statement. On behalf of the American people, President Biden expressed his admiration for the bravery and sacrifice of the Ukrainian people fighting for their freedom and their secure future.
Joe Biden and Volodymyr Zelensky. Photo credits: Office of the President of Ukraine
In his turn, during the talks, President Zelensky highlighted the U.S. leadership in the global consolidation of support for Ukraine.
"This crucial leadership enabled our struggle and bent the arc of history toward good. Together, we prove that freedom and independence are worth fighting for," the Ukrainian President said. Zelensky also expressed gratitude to President Joe Biden, the U.S.
Congress and the American people for their assistance. He emphasized: "You can count on Ukraine to protect our common values."
Training center for F-16 fighter jet pilots by Elbit Systems
The U.S. Department of Defense plans to begin training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s in the United States this fall.
F-16s for Ukraine
Militarnyi previously reported that on August 20, the Netherlands and Denmark announced their decision to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. According to President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, the Netherlands will provide 42 fighter jets to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Eight Ukrainian pilots have already begun training in Denmark. The first 6 fighters will fly from Denmark to Ukraine closer to the New Year.
Norwegian F-16AM fighter. Photo credits: Royal Norwegian Air Force
The Norwegian authorities have decided to transfer its F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.
Norway will become the third NATO country after the Netherlands and Denmark to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. It is yet unknown how many F-16s will be delivered. Greece will take part in training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets.
Thus, Greece has joined an aviation coalition in which some countries provide fighter jets to Ukraine while others train its pilots and personnel.