Netherlands bolsters Ukraine's air defence with new F‑16 missiles
The Netherlands has announced it will supply Ukraine with more air-to-air missiles for F-16 fighters. The defenders' army will be provided with weapons capable of shooting down other aircraft.
Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced the decision to provide additional aid to Ukraine. According to the Dutch news agency ANP, he made the announcement after international consultations regarding military support for Ukraine.
Delivery of missiles for F-16s to Ukraine
The type and number of delivered missiles, as well as the total value of the delivery, will not be disclosed for security reasons. As the minister admitted, the missiles are intended to combat enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones. Kyiv is also to receive materials necessary for servicing F-16 aircraft, including spare parts, maintenance materials, and specialized tools.
Among the air-to-air missiles compatible with the F-16s, the AIM-120 AMRAAM is the most significant. These are medium-range "fire and forget" missiles. In the latest versions, the range exceeds 100 kilometres (when fired from high altitude). After launch, its speed reaches up to 4936 kilometres per hour.
The Netherlands supports Ukraine
The Netherlands and other countries are supplying Ukraine with F-16 fighters. Brekelmans stated that he wants the Netherlands to maintain a leading role in supporting Kyiv and to accelerate assistance in possible areas. Since the Russian invasion, the Netherlands has provided Ukraine with military aid worth over EUR 3.1 billion (CAD 4.5 billion).
According to the Dutch minister, the now-announced missile delivery will not be the last. "The attacks on the country are massive, and Ukraine always asks for more equipment," Brekelmans emphasized, as quoted by ANP.
Geert Wilders, the leader of the PVV party, the strongest in the Dutch parliament, also met with Volodymyr Zelensky. They talked about the war in Ukraine and Dutch support. Although PVV condemns Russia's actions, it also criticizes Dutch support for Ukraine. Even though the coalition agreement provides for continued support, Wilders is increasingly skeptical about its maintenance.
Earlier this year, the Netherlands also decided to finance other missiles for F-16 fighters. This includes air-to-ground guided missiles, most likely AGM-65 Maverick with 56-kilogram warheads. Additionally, the Netherlands supports Ukraine in areas including air defence, such as the Patriot systems.
