The U.S. Air Force is extracting old and nonoperational F-16s from its boneyard to donate to Ukraine for spare parts. These aircraft are sourced from the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group located at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. An Air Force spokesperson confirmed that the donated planes, which are non-flyable and stripped of crucial components such as engines and radars, will be used to support the maintenance of the European-donated F-16s that Ukraine currently operates.
On the same day, the State Department approved a potential foreign military sale to Ukraine valued at approximately $310.5 million. This sale aims to sustain Ukraine’s F-16s and to provide training for its pilots and maintainers. It encompasses spare parts, modifications, ground handling equipment, publications, software support, technical assistance, and training programs.
The State Department indicated that this initiative aligns with U.S. foreign policy goals and national security interests by bolstering a partner nation that contributes to political stability and economic development in Europe. This military support is designed to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities while ensuring its pilots receive the necessary training for effective operation and maintenance.
Since the onset of Russia’s invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has sought advanced, fourth-generation fighter jets to modernize its air force. At the start of the conflict, Ukraine’s fleet primarily comprised 69 MiG-29 Fulcrum and Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker jets. Initially, the U.S. hesitated in responding to Ukraine’s requests for F-16s, with defense officials expressing concerns about the effectiveness of such aircraft.
However, in August 2023, President Joe Biden authorized the transfer of F-16s to Ukraine, leading to donations or pledges from the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, Commander of U.S. European Command, stated in a Senate hearing that F-16s have strengthened Ukraine’s defenses, with more jets and trained pilots ready for deployment, contributing actively to facing cruise missile threats and executing offensive operations along Ukraine’s eastern front.
Stephen Losey, the author of this report, is an air warfare reporter for Defense News, having previously covered various military-focused topics and U.S. Air Force operations, particularly in the Middle East.
