[88316] Belgium to transfer seven F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine to strengthen air defense

Belgium strengthens the Ukrainian Air Force with F-16s

Belgium announced today, June 18, 2026, a significant step in its military support for Ukraine. According to a report by Цензор.НЕТ (a channel identified with distinctly pro-Ukrainian positions), Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken confirmed that his country will transfer seven F-16 aircraft to Ukraine during the current year.

Of the aircraft to be transferred, four will be used as spare parts, while three will be prepared for air defense missions. Minister Francken emphasized that these are vital platforms that provide a response to threats from Russian missiles and cruise missiles.

In a further report by Новини.LIVE, it was noted that Minister Francken plans to propose to the Belgian government the transfer of its entire fleet of F-16 aircraft to Ukraine in the future. However, the process is conditional upon receiving Belgium's new F-35 aircraft and maintaining the country's commitments to NATO's nuclear doctrine.

Minister Francken stated that he expects an upcoming meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Brussels, with the aim of discussing the expansion of security assistance to Kyiv. As of now, the Belgian aid is defined as part of the European effort to defend Ukraine's skies against "Russian aggression."