US Secures $235 Million F-16 Repair Deal for Ukraine With Belgium’s Sabena Aerospace

The United States has entered into a contract for the repair and servicing of Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets in Belgium, which will be valid until 2029.

According to the Pentagon's website on January 29, Sabena Aerospace Engineering in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium, has been awarded a $235 million contract to support F-16 aircraft for foreign military forces.

“This contract provides for F-16 Intermediate and Depot Level aircraft and engine maintenance, and material management support for Ukraine,” the Pentagon stated.

Work will be performed at Sabena's facility in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert, Belgium, and is expected to be completed by January 28, 2029, according to the press release.

At the same time, Ukraine and Czechia are collaborating to establish a joint F-16 pilot training facility outside of Ukraine.

This initiative is part of a broader international effort to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities through the aviation coalition. Zelenskyy emphasized that discussions are ongoing between officials and military representatives to expand the coalition and establish the Ukrainian-Czech F-16 training school.

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Due to the ongoing threat posed by Russian missile and drone attacks, the training facility will not be located within Ukraine's borders.

“For security reasons, it is clear that we cannot open such a base in Ukraine at this time,” Zelenskyy explained. He confirmed that discussions are underway to set up the facility in partner countries, with Czechia agreeing to offer its support for the initiative.

Earlier, the US State Department authorized a potential $310.5 million assistance package aimed at supporting Ukraine's F-16 fighter jet program, which includes training, upgrades, and operational support services.

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