The hague: Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans met Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Oleksandr Kozenko to review continued support for Ukraine's F-16 fighter jet program, including ammunition, spare parts, and training, the Dutch Defense Ministry stated on Wednesday.

According to Anadolu Agency, Brekelmans expressed his admiration for the Ukrainian pilots, highlighting their effective use of F-16s in safeguarding the skies and neutralizing drones and missiles. He shared these sentiments on the US social media platform X, emphasizing the Netherlands' ongoing commitment to supporting the Ukrainian Air Force with necessary resources.

The Netherlands has committed to delivering a total of 24 F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft to Ukraine between 2024 and 2025, marking a significant contribution to Kyiv's efforts in modernizing its air force capabilities. This delivery positions the Netherlands as a crucial ally in Ukraine's defense strategy.

In an earlier announcement in July, Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Kozenko revealed that the Ukrainian Air Force had already received two technical hubs dedicated to the maintenance of F-16s and aviation weapons, along with a mission planning complex, enhancing their operational efficiency.

The Netherlands is part of a broader international coalition that includes Denmark, Norway, and Belgium. This coalition is actively involved in supplying Ukraine with F-16s and providing essential pilot training and maintenance support, further strengthening Ukraine's aerial defense infrastructure.