The United States government has authorized the possible sale of a support and logistical sustainment package for the growing fleet of F-16 fighter jets operated by the Ukrainian Air Force. The news, just announced by the State Department in its notification to the U.S. Congress, marks the first such action in favor of Kyiv by the Trump administration.
Over the past few weeks, it has been reported that the coalition of European allies—comprised of Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium—has been making progress in the transfer of up to 85 operational F-16s. According to the latest reports, since deliveries began in August 2024, the first aircraft received by the Ukrainian Air Force have come from the Danish and Dutch air forces, with a new batch of fighter jets confirmed for shipment at the end of April.
As the number of available F-16s increases, this has also translated into a growing number of missions carried out by the jets in the theater of operations. These missions have evolved from basic air cover over Kyiv to ground attack and close air support roles. Official records already confirm the first two combat losses, resulting in the deaths of their pilots.
Accordingly, and as detailed in today’s notification—May 2—by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the Ukrainian government has requested from the United States the acquisition of a support and logistical sustainment package for its fleet of F-16 fighters.
Valued at US$310.5 million, the package includes the following items:
- Modifications and upgrades of the aircraft
- Personnel training related to: operation, maintenance, and sustainment support
- Spare parts, consumables, and accessories
- Repair and return services
- Ground handling equipment
- Delivery and support of classified and unclassified software
- Classified and unclassified publications and technical documentation
- Studies and surveys
- U.S. Government and contractor support services in: engineering, technical assistance, and logistics
- Other elements related to logistics and program support
The State Department stated: “This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.”
It added: “The proposed sale will improve Ukraine’s capability to meet current and future threats by ensuring its pilots are effectively trained and by increasing its interoperability with the United States through comprehensive training with the U.S. Air Force. This proposed sale aligns with international coalition contributions for the establishment of Ukraine’s F-16 program and the overall modernization of Ukraine’s air force. Ukraine will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.”
