Latest batch of Dutch F-16s arrived in Ukraine

A new batch of F-16 fighter jets owned by the Netherlands has been delivered to Ukraine, the war-torn country announced on Thursday. It is unclear how many of the 24 fighter jets the Netherlands pledged are now in Ukraine.

"The Ukrainian air force has received long-awaited reinforcements," Defense Minister Rustem Umyerov said on Facebook on Thursday. This again included "F-16s from the Netherlands.”

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also cheered the arrival, saying, “We continue to expand our F-16 fleet, with the Netherlands fulfilling its commitments to support this effort.”

The Dutch Ministry of Defense has consistently remained silent about the transfer of F-16s and also would not comment on Thursday in response. The first Dutch fighter jets were delivered late in the summer.

Ukraine has been promised a total of 80 F-16s by allies such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. One of the aircraft crashed in Ukraine soon after the transfer.

"What a day, when both F-16s from the Netherlands and Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France arrived in Ukraine," Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko also cheered. France also announced the transfer of the first French Mirage 2000s on Thursday.

"The new aircraft will soon begin combat missions, strengthening our defenses and increasing our ability to effectively repel Russian aggression," Umyerov said.

Ukraine has long been looking for more Western fighter jets, which can help repel Russian missile attacks. The country can also use them to fire cruise missiles at airfields, fuel depots, and other targets deep inside Russia.

"I am grateful to everyone who helps and contributes to this," Zelenskyy said.