Military expert Zgurets explains how many F-16s Norway can provide to Ukraine

Defence Express CEO and military expert Serhiy Zgurets shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

He noted that Norway stands as the third country to declare its intention to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets. Previously, it had over 50 fighter jets in modern modification. Norwegian F-16s are the most capable and best maintained compared to other countries.

"According to preliminary estimates, despite the stock of 50 aircraft, some of which Norway plans to supply to Romania, at least 5 to 12 F-16s can be provided to Ukraine,” the expert said.

F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine

On May 21, US President Joe Biden approved the training of Ukrainians on F-16s. Volodymyr Zelenskyy assured that Ukraine would not use these aircraft to strike at Russian territory. Ukraine’s Defense Ministry adviser Yuriy Sak said that Ukraine hopes to receive the first modern American F-16 fighter jets in the fall of 2023.

In July, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said that the first F-16 fighter jets are likely to fly in Ukraine's skies by the end of March 2024.

On August 17, the US approved the delivery of F-16 multi-role fighter jets to Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Denmark said it would supply Ukraine with 19 aircraft, provided they are not used on Russian territory. The first group of pilots has already begun training on F-16s in Denmark.