Ukraine** Zelensky announced on December 22 after a phone call with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte that the Netherlands will begin preparations for the delivery of the first batch of 18 F-16 jets to Ukraine.
The Netherlands and Denmark spearheaded an international alliance in the summer of 2023 that would train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 jets. In November, the Dutch Ministry of Defense said it would send up to 18 F-16 fighters to Romania for training purposes only.
Rutte confirmed the decision to prepare for work in X's post, adding that a number of criteria must be met before delivery, including obtaining an export license and meeting requirements for personnel and infrastructure.
"This decision confirms the commitment of the Netherlands to provide Ukraine with the support it needs for Russia's continued aggression," Rutte said.
Yuriy Inat, spokesman for the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said that it would be good to create a training center in Romania "in close proximity to Ukraine", where pilots from Ukraine and NATO countries will be able to study. Ukraine may even create pilot training and retraining centers in wartime.
At the same time, he noted that Ukrainian pilots study in the United States, Europe and other countries.