The transfer of the first six F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark will be postponed for up to six months, according to Danish newspaper Berlingske, citing the Danish Ministry of Defense.
Originally scheduled to be sent to Ukraine closer to the New Year, it is now expected that the jets will be delivered in the second quarter of 2024.
According to the ministry, certain conditions have not yet been met for Ukraine to be able to use the F-16s. The specific circumstances that led to the delay in deliveries remain unclear.
“This includes the completion of training for the Ukrainian personnel who will operate the aircraft after the transfer. The training schedule also depends on a number of factors, such as equipment and weather conditions,” the Ministry of Defense told the newspaper.
The publication notes that currently, six Ukrainian pilots are undergoing training on F-16s in Denmark.
Earlier, Reuters reported that Norway will send two F-16s to Denmark for the training of Ukrainian pilots.
Previously, NATO had outlined conditions for the transfer of F-16s to Ukraine.
