In an interview published Wednesday with Ukrainian website European Pravda, Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren did not reveal the exact delivery date, but emphasized it. The number of these flights will increase regularlyEmpower the Ukrainian Air Force. He noted that the first fighters are to be provided by Denmark and only after that the Netherlands will join the effort.
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The Dutch defense minister confirmed that F-16s could be used to attack military targets in Russia, citing Ukraine’s right to self-defense. “You are at war against an aggressor. According to Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, this is self-defense.” Ollongren said.
“These fighters will arrive gradually. Their effectiveness will be shown by combat use. This will significantly strengthen the (Ukrainian) Air Force and lead to air superiority at some point. However, this will not happen immediately after receiving the first F-16s. So if someone expects an immediate effect, “I highly recommend him. Advise to take a realistic approach,” he said.
The Netherlands is also considering providing an additional Patriot air defense system to Ukraine. In total, Ukraine is expected to receive more than 60 F-16 fighter jets this summer, provided by Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands and Belgium.