Norway Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store announced on Wednesday that Norway will initiate the process of donating six F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine this year. The decision aims to bolster Ukraine’s air defence capabilities amidst its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Last year, the Norwegian government committed to donating these F-16s as part of a collaborative effort involving Denmark, the Netherlands, and the USA. Prime Minister Støre had initially disclosed this plan on Ukraine’s Independence Day in Kyiv.
Norway’s Defence Ministry confirmed its ongoing support by assisting in the training of Ukrainian fighter pilots at Denmark’s Skrydstrup air base from autumn 2023. Prime Minister Støre reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to continue this training support in the future.
Norway phased out its F-16 fleet in 2021 with the introduction of the new F-35 combat aircraft, selling many of its F-16s to Romania. The decision to donate F-16s to Ukraine underscores Norway's stance in supporting Ukraine's defence against what it labels as Russia's aggressive actions.
Espen Barth Eide, Norway’s Foreign Minister, emphasised Ukraine’s critical role in defending shared values of democracy and international law in the Euro-Atlantic region. He highlighted Ukraine’s strategic importance in maintaining regional security.
Norway’s Defence Minister Bjorn Arild Gram noted that as the number of F-16s in the Ukrainian Air Force increases, the need for armament and support will be met through collaborative efforts with other nations. This multinational cooperation includes Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Great Britain, and Norway.
The donation of F-16s marks a significant step in international support for Ukraine’s defence capabilities against external threats, reinforcing solidarity among European and North American allies in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges.
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