Ukraine is set to commence the operation of F-16s following Orthodox Easter on May 5, as confirmed by Kyiv. The country is facing severe Russian attacks and has been eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Western-made fighter jets.
"We are anticipating," mentioned Ukrainian air force spokesperson Ilya Yevlash, stating that the jets will be deployed in the skies above the conflict-ridden nation "post-Easter," as reported by Ukrainian media on Wednesday.
Several of Ukraine's Western supporters have committed to providing Lockheed Martin-manufactured F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Kyiv has been requesting these advanced jets for a while to modernize and reinforce its air force, which has been under strain due to over two years of conflict against Russia's more advanced and numerous aircraft.
However, uncertainty surrounds the exact timeline for Kyiv to receive the fighter jets and make them operational against Russian forces, with timelines being vague and plagued by delays.
Prior to the deployment of the jets in Ukraine, Western nations have stated that Ukrainian personnel must finish their training programs, and the essential infrastructure and facilities must be operational in the country.
Initially, the jets were expected to arrive in the first part of 2024, but the Dutch government announced in January that Ukraine would receive an initial batch of F-16s in the "second quarter" of the year.
Belgian Defense Minister Ludivine Dedonder mentioned last month that Belgium would make every effort to deliver F-16s to Ukraine by the end of 2024. The jets were planned to reach the country in 2025.
Comments
Post a Comment