Following Denmark And The Netherlands Send F-16 Fighter Jets, Norwegian Defense Minister Grams: Significantly Strengthen Ukraine's Military Capability

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky when welcoming Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere at Kyiv. (Source: President.gov.ua)

JAKARTA - The Norwegian prime minister announced his country's plan to donate F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, during a visit to Kyiv Thursday, following similar shipments by the Netherlands and Denmark.

The F-16 has long been on Ukraine's list of wishes due to its destruction power and global availability. This fighter jet is equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, rockets and missiles.

"We plan to donate Norwegian F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, and will provide further details regarding the donation, amount and time frame of delivery, in due course," Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere said in a statement.

PM Stoere met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv on Thursday. In addition to the F-16 fighter jet, he also announced donations of weapons and other equipment.

"These F-16 jets will significantly strengthen Ukraine's military capabilities," Norwegian Defense Minister Bjoern Arild Gram said in a statement.

Many NATO ally countries have the F-16, which was originally designed in the 1970s, making it easier to find parts compared to Russian aircraft currently used by Ukraine.

Meanwhile, President Zelensky has appreciated and thanked Norway for its support and assistance since Russia launched its invasion last year.

We really appreciate all Norwegian people who have supported Ukraine since the first day of Russia's massive aggression. And every day during this war, we feel Norway is eager to help Ukraine and restore peace. Norwegian support has helped save thousands of people. lives," President Zelensky said, citing the Ukrainian Presidential Site.

In addition to sending fighter jets for use in warfare, Norway also provides two similar jets for Norwegian pilot training missions. Oslo also sends IRIS-T air defense systems to anti-ranjau equipment.