The Netherlands will send a new batch of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Ukraine is anticipating another batch of F-16 fighter jets in 2025. This was announced by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov following talks in The Hague with the Dutch Minister of Defense, Ruben Brekelmans.

“The Netherlands continues to be among the leaders in supporting Ukraine, and their assistance has significantly increased in 2024. Agreements have already been reached for 2025. The main priority is the F-16 program. We are expecting a new batch of fighter jets in 2025 and continue the training of pilots as well as engineering and technical personnel,” Umerov wrote on his Facebook page.

He emphasized that the Netherlands plays a crucial role in the Air Force Coalition, contributing to the development of Ukraine's aviation infrastructure.

The minister identified unmanned aerial vehicles as the second priority.

“We have coordinated the distribution of the previously announced 400 million euros, as well as the preparation of large-scale joint projects regarding long-range capabilities,” Umerov reported.

In addition, the supply of artillery ammunition, air defense systems, and interceptor missiles remains on the agenda, the defense chief added.

According to Umerov, the Netherlands fully understands Ukraine's needs and is prepared to increase support. He described the next logical step as the development of joint defense enterprises, which would enhance the defense capabilities of both countries.

“We have synchronized plans for military aid supply, its effective use on the battlefield, and support for operations. It is important to act quickly and effectively with our partners,” the minister noted.

The Netherlands, along with Denmark, Belgium, and Norway, is part of a coalition of countries committed to transferring 79 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously stated that at least 120–130 such aircraft are necessary for an effective counter to Russian aviation.

The Times previously reported that at the end of July 2024, the Netherlands delivered six F-16s to Kyiv. In early August, Zelensky presented the first footage of these fighter jets on Ukrainian territory. In October, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans confirmed the transfer of the first batch of aircraft but did not specify their exact number, only noting that “in the coming months,” 24 previously promised F-16s would arrive in Ukraine from the Netherlands.