For US$310.5 million, the U.S. authorized the sale of a logistical support package for the Ukrainian Air Force’s F-16 fighter jets

SOURCE: ZM- AUTHOR:M.J. GDNUS

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.”