The Belgian government is finalizing preparations to transfer three modern F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, which will significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force in repelling aerial attacks. This initiative is part of a large-scale international program to support Ukrainian military aviation, but its implementation depends on fulfilling certain legal and technical procedures at the interstate level.
Transfer condition: the French EW factor
The main condition for sending the aircraft to Ukraine is official approval from France. As Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken explained, these fighter jets are equipped with specialized French electronic warfare (EW) systems installed during modernization. Without prior approval from Paris, the re-export or transfer of military equipment featuring French technology is impossible, though the Belgian side expects a prompt resolution of all bureaucratic nuances.
Logistics, maintenance, and ammunition
The Belgian Defense Minister also refuted media rumors regarding alleged technical problems with the maintenance of Ukrainian F-16s at Sabena Engineering facilities. According to him, the company currently maintains four fighter jets monthly, and this figure could increase to six units in the future. In parallel with aviation equipment, Belgium continues to supply ammunition: following the shipment of a batch of 50,000 units, preparations have started for a new package requested by the Ukrainian army to counter enemy drones.
Contradictory data
While official statements from the Belgian defense department confirm the upcoming dispatch of three fighter jets and stable technical support, open sources and expert circles discuss differing views on overall delivery paces and aircraft repair timelines. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously highlighted the issue of certain aircraft spending extended periods under repair in European centers. Additionally, questions remain regarding the precise schedules of logistics operations dependent on the French side's decision regarding EW systems.
