Norwegian broadcaster TV2 has reported that Norway has taken the step to donate F-16 combat aircraft to Ukraine to support its defense against Russia’s ongoing invasion. While the exact number of jets to be provided has not been disclosed, the move would mark Norway as the third nation, following the Netherlands and Denmark, to pledge U.S.-manufactured F-16 jets to Ukraine.
The Norwegian foreign ministry has not yet responded to a request from Reuters seeking comment on this matter. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere, after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv, confirmed donations of anti-aircraft missiles and other equipment, but no mention was made regarding the F-16s.
Ukraine has long expressed interest in acquiring F-16s due to their considerable combat capabilities and worldwide availability. Equipped with a 20mm cannon and the ability to carry bombs, rockets, and missiles, the F-16 has been a sought-after asset.
Given that several NATO allies possess F-16s, which were originally designed in the 1970s, accessing spare parts is more feasible compared to Ukraine’s reliance on Russian aircraft.
Notably, Norway retired its fleet of 57 F-16s last year and subsequently confirmed the sale of 32 to NATO ally Romania under a finalized agreement. Plans for an additional 12 aircraft to be sold to a private company for U.S. Air Force training are still pending final approval. Some analysts speculate that these jets could be suitable for donation to Ukraine.
Among the 13 remaining F-16s, the Norwegian defense ministry revealed last year that a significant portion would be too costly or complex to repair. As a result, potential solutions include preservation in a museum, utilization for spare parts, or scrapping.
Norway has made the transition to the successor model F-35 to replace its retired F-16 fleet.
