Belgium urged to expedite F‑16 delivery amid Ukrainian pressure

Last year's decision by the Belgian government stipulated that Ukraine would receive 30 used F-16 fighters. Initially, the plan was to deliver the first units by the end of the previous year, but the execution of these plans encountered difficulties, resulting in a delay.

Difficulties arose, among other reasons, due to a lack of spare parts and delays in deliveries of new F-35 fighters, which are intended to replace the F-16s in the Belgian Air Force.

"We do not have the luxury of waiting to strengthen our air defences," said Oleksandr Kornienko, head of the Ukrainian delegation.

"Your prime minister promised us that some aircraft could be delivered before the end of 2024. So far we have not received them," added another representative of the Ukrainian delegation, Yehor Cherniev.

Western allies have committed to providing Ukraine with F-16 fighters in the modified F-16A/B MLU variants (Mid-Life Update from the 1990s). These aircraft are equipped with improved radar systems and are also adapted to work with a wider range of weaponry, including AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles with a range of about 60 miles. However, changes have been made to the aircraft, involving the removal of equipment reserved for NATO countries. As a result, they lack systems such as the Link-16 tactical information system, which some Ukrainian experts criticise.

Currently, the F-16 fighters that have already been delivered to Ukraine are primarily used to complement the country's air defence. Pilots utilise them to shoot down drones and cruise missiles. However, there have also been reports of successful engagements with Russian aircraft, such as the Su-34 bomber.

During his address in Davos, also on 21 January, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised the importance of investing in European defence, adding that without it, the world could progress without Europe's participation.