Dutch government to send more missiles to Ukraine in latest aid
The Netherlands has announced it will supply Ukraine with additional air-to-air missiles for its F-16 fighters. This will, it was emphasised, provide Ukraine's defence forces with weapons capable of shooting down other aircraft.
The decision to provide further aid to Ukraine was announced by Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans. According to the Dutch news agency ANP, he announced international consultations regarding military support for Ukraine.
Delivery of missiles for F-16s to Ukraine
For security reasons, the type and quantity of missiles to be delivered, as well as the total value of the delivery, will not be disclosed. As the minister stated, the missiles are intended to combat enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones. Kyiv is also to receive materials necessary for servicing F-16 aircraft, including spare parts, maintenance materials, and specialised tools.
Among the air-to-air missiles compatible with the F-16s, the AIM-120 AMRAAM is the most significant. These are medium-range "fire and forget" missiles. In the latest versions, the range exceeds 100 kilometres (when fired from high altitude). After launch, its speed reaches up to 4,932 km/h.
The Netherlands supports Ukraine
The Netherlands, along with other countries, is supplying Ukraine with F-16 fighters. Brekelmans stated that he wants the Netherlands to maintain a leading role in supporting Kyiv and to accelerate assistance in possible areas. Since the Russian invasion, the Netherlands has provided Ukraine with military aid worth over 3.1 billion euros (£2.7 billion).
According to the Dutch minister, the now-announced missile delivery will not be the last. "The attacks on the country are massive, and Ukraine always asks for more equipment," Brekelmans emphasised, as quoted by ANP.
Geert Wilders, the leader of the PVV party, the strongest in the Dutch parliament, also met with Volodymyr Zelensky. They discussed the war in Ukraine and Dutch support. Although PVV condemns Russia's actions, it criticises Dutch support for Ukraine. Even though the coalition agreement provides continued support, Wilders is increasingly sceptical about its maintenance.
Earlier this year, the Netherlands also decided to finance other missiles for F-16 fighters. This includes air-to-ground guided missiles, most likely AGM-65 Maverick with 56-kilogram warheads. Additionally, the Netherlands supports Ukraine in areas including air defence, such as the Patriot systems.
