According to Danish newspaper Berlingske, Denmark's donation of F-16 war jets to Ukraine is expected to be delayed by up to six months, as reported by the country's Ministry of Defense. Kyiv has been advocating for fighter jets to bolster its military capabilities against Russia, which launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Denmark, along with the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium, had previously pledged to send U.S.-made F-16s to Kyiv.

The Danish Prime Minister had previously stated in August that the selection of pilots was underway and training was about to commence, with the hope of the first group of aircraft departing for Ukraine by the New Year. The initial shipment was anticipated to consist of around six planes, followed by an additional eight the following year, and five more in subsequent years. However, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen has revised the timeline and now expects the first jets to be sent by April 2024.

Denmark has been at the forefront among countries pledging support for Ukraine's defense in the ongoing conflict. The delivery of U.S.-made fighter jets makes them one of the largest contributors to Ukraine's military capabilities.

In a related development, Ukrainian pilots are set to begin training on two F-16 fighter jets donated by Norway in Denmark, as recently announced by the Norwegian government. This training initiative aims to equip Ukrainian pilots with the necessary skills to operate the F-16s in the future.

The delay in Denmark's donation underscores the complexity of logistical arrangements and training requirements involved in transferring military assets. Although it brings disappointment to Ukraine, Kyiv will still look forward to the arrival of the F-16s to strengthen its defense against Russian aggression.