Belgium will deliver seven F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine this year as part of a broader commitment to strengthen Kyiv's air defenses, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken announced on Thursday.
Speaking on the sidelines of a NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels, Francken said the aircraft would help Ukraine counter Russian drone and missile attacks.
Belgium has pledged a total of 53 F-16s to Ukraine, including 30 aircraft promised by the previous government. The delivery schedule is tied to Belgium's transition from F-16s to Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets.
The remaining aircraft are expected to be transferred only after Belgium completes its F-35 rollout, a process that could extend until 2029.
Belgium also signaled plans to increase military assistance to Ukraine as Western allies continue to bolster Kyiv's defense capabilities amid the ongoing war with Russia.
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