Norway will deliver all promised F-16s to Ukraine by the end of 2025 – the transfer is already underway
15 May 2025 21:48
Norwegian Defense Minister Tore Sandvik has confirmed that all the F-16 fighter jets that the country has promised Ukraine will be delivered by the end of 2025.
He said this in an interview with the Norwegian TV channel NRK, emphasizing that the transfer process has already begun and is progressing according to the agreed schedule, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
According to Sandvik, some of the combat aircraft have already been transferred to Ukraine, although the authorities do not disclose the exact number for reasons of operational security and in accordance with agreements with the Ukrainian side.
“The transfer of Norwegian F-16 fighters is going according to plan, but due to security issues and within the framework of a confidential dialogue with Ukraine, we do not disclose the exact number of aircraft,” the minister emphasized.
In addition to the transfer of aircraft, Norway has also significantly increased its military assistance to Ukraine in 2024. In particular, this includes additional support for the air defense system. This year, the government has allocated NOK 1.3 billion (over €112 million) for this purpose, which is another step in the long-term defense support for Ukraine.
In August 2024, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre officially announced that the country would provide Ukraine with six F-16 fighter jets as part of a multilateral initiative that also includes the United States, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Belgium. The planes are intended to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense and aviation capabilities amid ongoing threats from Russia.
The Norwegian F-16s are being delivered as part of a coalition of allies supporting Ukraine in providing modern weapons and pilot training. Ukrainian pilots are undergoing special training to master these combat vehicles, in particular, in training centers in Denmark, the United States, and other countries.
In April 2025, General Christopher Cavoli, Commander of the U.S. European Command, also confirmed that Ukraine would receive new F-16 fighters in the near future. According to him, the transfer is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the Ukrainian armed forces, especially in terms of airspace protection.
Earlier, in March, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the arrival of a new batch of F-16s, without specifying the number, but noting that it would be a significant reinforcement in the fight against Russian aggression.
The F-16 is an American-made multi-role fighter jet that is widely used by NATO member states. Its arrival in the Ukrainian arsenal will significantly increase the combat capability of the Ukrainian Air Force, allowing it to respond more effectively to missile strikes, drone attacks, and air combat.
The delivery of these aircraft is part of a broader package of military and financial assistance from Ukraine’s allies in the war against Russia.
