U.S. Approves $310 Million F-16 Pilot Training and Maintenance Deal for Ukraine
The U.S. State Department has approved a $310.5 million agreement with Ukraine that includes pilot training, aircraft maintenance, and support services for the country’s incoming fleet of F-16 fighter jets.
In a statement on May 2, the State Department said it had formally notified Congress of the proposed deal, which is designed to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and improve interoperability with U.S. forces.
"The proposed sale will enhance Ukraine's ability to meet current and future threats by ensuring its pilots are properly trained and equipped," the department said.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the agreement covers aircraft modification and upgrades, training for operational and maintenance personnel, logistical support, and spare parts. The agency emphasized that the deal would contribute to Ukraine's security and broader stability and economic progress in Europe.
While the agreement still requires Congressional approval, lawmakers are widely expected to greenlight the package swiftly.
The move comes as Ukraine continues integrating a new fleet of U.S.-made F-16s into its air force, following commitments from Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium in 2023 to deliver a combined 85 jets. The first batch of aircraft arrived in August 2024, though Ukraine has not disclosed how many have been received. Reports suggest the number is close to 20.
Ukraine’s F-16s are seen as a significant upgrade over its Soviet-era jets, particularly in intercepting cruise missiles and unmanned aerial threats—roles in which they have proven more effective than many ground-based air defense systems.
Initially, Ukraine deployed the F-16s to rear-guard positions to counter missile and drone attacks. In February, the aircraft were spotted carrying ground-attack munitions for the first time, though the exact location of their deployment was not disclosed.
President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized the Biden administration’s multibillion-dollar military and economic support for Ukraine. However, ties between Washington and Kyiv appear to be warming, with both countries signing a landmark mineral investment agreement earlier this week.
(Sources: AFP, Reuters, Kyiv Independent)
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