First F-16 from US delivered to Ukraine

Speaking at an event on the sidelines of the NATO Summit in Washington, Mr. Blinken said a strong aid package for Ukraine would be announced in the coming days, aiming to build a clear and strong bridge for Ukraine to join NATO.

An F-16 fighter jet lands at a Turkish air base in Konya in September 2004. Photo: AP

“The delivery of F-16 fighter jets is underway, they are coming from Denmark and the Netherlands,” Mr Blinken said. “They will be flying over Ukraine this summer.” Strengthening air defences is crucial for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.

The F-16 fighter jet has long been on Ukraine’s wish list because of its devastating power and global availability. The aircraft is armed with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, missiles and rockets.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said last week that he wanted to double Ukraine's air defense capabilities over the summer and needed at least seven additional Patriot systems to protect the country.

NATO members have announced the delivery of five additional Patriot systems and other strategic air defense systems to support Ukraine. Further aid announcements are expected at this week’s NATO summit, marking the alliance’s 75th anniversary.

Denmark has pledged to donate a total of 19 aircraft, while the Netherlands has promised to provide 24. Both countries have been pushing hard for an international coalition to provide F-16s to Ukraine.

Norway also announced that it will donate six F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, with deliveries expected to begin this year.

Cao Phong (according to AP, SCMP)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/tiem-kich-f-16-tren-duong-den-ukraine-tu-dan-mach-va-ha-lan-post303030.html