Belgium's planned transfer of 30 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine has been pushed back until at least the end of 2025, according to General Frédéric Vansina, Chief of Defense of Belgium. This postponement arises from significant delays surrounding the acquisition of advanced F-35 jets from the United States.
On February 20, 2025, Vansina confirmed this setback during an interview with the Belgian newspaper Le Soir. Initially, Belgium anticipated transferring its F-16s to Ukraine by late 2024, following the induction of the F-35s. But due to issues with the timely delivery of the F-35 jets, which was first signed under contract back in 2018, the situation has become more complicated.
“The transfer of the first of Belgium’s 30 F-16s to Ukraine has been delayed by at least a year—until the end of 2025,” Vansina stated. Despite Belgium receiving its first four F-35s only last July, plans for additional deliveries were already put on hold as the U.S. postponed shipments expected to start this year.
Belgium remains determined to fulfill its commitment to Ukraine, aiming to become the country's largest F-16 supplier, even amid these challenges. “Belgium remains committed to becoming Ukraine’s largest F-16 supplier,” he reiterated. The country currently operates over 50 F-16s, which are set to be phased out as the newer F-35s are introduced, aiming for complete replacement by late 2028.
While the F-16 delay poses hurdles, operations to support Ukraine's defensive capabilities continue, with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announcing earlier this month the successful delivery of several F-16s from Denmark as part of broader military aid.
Belgium's commitment to support Ukraine's military efforts against Russian aggression remains concurrent with its tactical restructuring of its own air force. By gradually transferring these fighter jets, Belgium is not only aiding Ukraine but also aligning with NATO allies to counter increased Russian aerial activity.
Reports indicate Ukraine had already received 20 Western fighter jets as of February 2025, which included 10 F-16s from the Netherlands and 10 Mirage 2000s from France. These deliveries signify the strengthening of Ukraine’s air capabilities against the backdrop of the continuing conflict with Russia.
But Belgium's delay leaves questions for the future, particularly as the timeline for when Ukrainian forces will receive these aircraft has now expanded considerably. With logistics issues and supply chain challenges at play, leaders must navigate these circumstances carefully to maintain their commitments.
The timeline for transitioning to F-35s will inevitably dictate when the older F-16s can be sent. “We expect the F-35s will completely replace our F-16 fleet by late 2028, enabling the gradual transfer of 30 F-16s to Ukraine over the next three to four years,” Vansina elaborated.
For now, the focus remains on bolstering Ukraine's air defenses, as evidenced by the supportive efforts from Denmark and other allies. Continuing to support Ukraine remains not just strategic but also symbolic of international solidarity, particularly against Russian advances.
The stakes remain high as the war escalates. Ukrainian forces are actively integrating Western aircraft like the F-16 and Mirage 2000, with officials like Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, previously announcing Belgium's commitment to arm Ukraine with these jets by 2028. The integration of international defense support remains pivotal as both nations prepare for mounting challenges moving forward.
Belgium's F-16s represent not only military assets, but also the deepening ties and support for Ukraine's sovereignty. While setbacks create hurdles, the long-term commitment remains firm, keeping the focus on collaborative defense efforts against the backdrop of tumultuous geopolitical dynamics.