On May 26, 2025, the last Dutch F-16 fighter jets destined for Ukraine officially left the Netherlands.
The aircraft took off from Volkel Air Base en route to Belgium, where they will undergo final preparations before being transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force. The information was confirmed by the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
“This is a nostalgic moment, as the F-16s have played an important role in our Air Force for decades. Now, with the transition to the F-35, I can't think of a more appropriate destination than Ukraine, where these aircraft can help counter Russian aggression,” said Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
According to the minister, the transfer was completed in record time thanks to the joint efforts of technicians and pilots from both countries. “In peacetime, such an operation would take years. Now we’ve managed it in months. I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved,” he added.
X @DefensieMin
The aircraft took off from Volkel Air Base en route to Belgium, where they will undergo final preparations before being transferred to the Ukrainian Air Force. The information was confirmed by the Dutch Ministry of Defence.
“This is a nostalgic moment, as the F-16s have played an important role in our Air Force for decades. Now, with the transition to the F-35, I can't think of a more appropriate destination than Ukraine, where these aircraft can help counter Russian aggression,” said Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans.
According to the minister, the transfer was completed in record time thanks to the joint efforts of technicians and pilots from both countries. “In peacetime, such an operation would take years. Now we’ve managed it in months. I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved,” he added.
X @DefensieMin
Category
🤖
TechTranscript
00:00We are here at Volkel at a historical moment, because the last F-16s are flying towards Ukraine.
00:16It is nostalgic for our people who have flown with the F-16s.
00:22On the other hand is also very nice that the F-16s get a new decision in Ukraine.
00:26We see daily massages through Russia.
00:30The F-16s are extremely important so that Ukraine can defend itself.
00:34They do it for their own land, but also for us to keep the Russian aggression.
00:40The fact that the Ukrainians so quickly have been able to fly with the F-16s is very nice.
00:47And at the same time, our people have worked hard to do everything that needs.
00:52With the logistics, training and the delivery of the equipment itself.
00:56That is in such a short period of time.
01:00As everyone who has worked, thank you very much.
01:02That is first aid.
01:03Thank you very much.
01:14Thank you very much.