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US Commits $26M to Integrate Ukraine’s F-16 Fighters Into NATO Systems
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
The United States has contracted Lockheed Martin to develop specialized technical documentation for Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets, a step aimed at ensuring the long-term integration of the aircraft into the country’s Air Force.
According to Defense Express on September 23, the $26 million agreement was signed under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) framework.
The contract covers the creation of country-specific operational and maintenance manuals, tailored to the needs of Ukraine’s pilots, engineers, and support staff.
The Pentagon stated that the work will be completed by May 30, 2029. This means that US support for the introduction and operation of the F-16 in Ukraine is secured for at least the next four years.
The order was placed by the F-16 FMS Life Cycle Management Office at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. The funding is expected to come from allocations under the Security Sector Assistance initiative, which supports partner capacity-building.
Such documentation packages are standard for new F-16 operators, as each air force has unique requirements and operational conditions.
The manuals are designed to simplify maintenance procedures, streamline pilot training, and help in transitioning from Soviet-era aircraft to NATO standards.
Ukraine is scheduled to receive dozens of F-16s in the coming years, making the fighter the most common aircraft in its Air Force inventory once deliveries are complete.
Establishing proper infrastructure, technical support, and training frameworks is therefore seen as essential for sustaining the fleet.
Defense Express also noted that Ukraine’s state defense holding signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin at the MSPO 2025 exhibition in Poland, discussing expanded cooperation and possible local servicing of the jets. If realized, such steps could shorten repair times and reduce dependence on external facilities.
Earlier, on August 30, Ukrainian interceptor drones operated alongside F-16 fighter jets during a nighttime Russian strike, successfully engaging enemy targets, according to Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat.
