The Netherlands Ministry of Defense announced on June 13th that Ukraine will receive a significant shipment of 152mm artillery shells, valued at over €350 million ($376 Million). This critical military aid is being funded by the International Fund for Support of Ukraine (IFU).
For security reasons, the exact number of shells and delivery timeframe are not being disclosed. However, the Dutch Ministry did confirm that this is one of the largest ammunition orders ever facilitated by the IFU: “This is one of the biggest orders of the IFU from the international arms industry.”
This shipment is particularly important because, while Ukraine has primarily received 155mm howitzer ammunition in previous deliveries, the Netherlands also has a significant number of 152mm artillery guns. These new shells will help ensure Ukraine has the necessary firepower to defend itself.
Ukraine’s air defense capabilities took were in the focus during discussions in Brussels. The Netherlands, along with other Patriot coalition countries, has pledged to supply a Patriot air defense system to Ukraine. To facilitate this, the Netherlands will contribute three launchers and a radar.
In addition to the Patriot system, the Netherlands is also committed to bolstering Ukraine’s air force by sending 24 F-16 fighter jets. The first delivery is anticipated to occur after the summer. Ukrainian pilots are currently undergoing intensive training in the United States and Denmark to fly these advanced aircraft.
IFU serves as an additional support mechanism for Ukraine’s defense needs. Led by the British Ministry of Defence, this initiative brings together a consortium of nine countries: Australia, Denmark, Iceland, Lithuania, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden.
These nine nations have collectively contributed over €1 billion to the IFU, with the Netherlands making a significant contribution of €125 million.
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