Netherlands provides nearly EUR 90 mln military aid via PURL, incl F-16 aircraft simulators

The Netherlands, Great Britain, Norway and Sweden are providing assistance in the form of a new supply of U.S. weapons, equipment and ammunition within the framework of the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) initiative, while the Netherlands will also supply simulators of the F-16 multi-role fighter to Ukraine, the kingdom's Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans said at a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG).

"Despite all diplomatic efforts, we see Russian terrorist attacks continuing every day. With temperatures in Ukraine dropping to -20, Russian drones and missiles are deliberately targeting energy facilities. This is simply a crime. Therefore, it is very important that we continue to provide Ukraine with massive support. Especially in terms of air defense. Together with the UK, Norway and Sweden, we are once again making an important contribution in this direction," the country's defense ministry said, citing Brekelmans.

It is noted that the total cost of the arms package is EUR 420 million, with the Netherlands contributing about EUR 90 million.

Brekelmans also announced that the Netherlands will supply F-16 simulators to Ukraine. Former Dutch F-16s are actively used by the Ukrainian Air Force to defend their country from Russian attacks. Simulators play an important role in pilot training. For operational security reasons, details of this delivery are not being disclosed.