Ukraine upgrading F-16 fighter jet fleet as a part of first US buy beneath new minerals deal 

The State Division permitted the sale of F-16 fighter jet coaching, sustainment and tools to Ukraine on Friday within the first deal associated to the lately signed mineral rights settlement. 

The $310.5 million tools and companies being bought by Ukraine will permit the US to earn credit score in an funding fund established by the minerals deal — inked Wednesday — the place earnings will probably be cut up 50/50. 

Ukraine’s buy consists of consists of “plane modifications and upgrades; personnel coaching associated to operation, upkeep, and sustainment help; spare elements, consumables and equipment, and restore and return help; floor dealing with tools; categorised and unclassified software program supply and help; categorised and unclassified publications and technical documentation; research and surveys; US Authorities and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics help companies; and different associated parts of logistics and program help,” the Protection Safety Cooperation Company (DSCA) mentioned in a assertion. 

Ukraine obtained F-16s from NATO and superior weaponry for the plane from the US final July. 

“This proposed sale will help the overseas coverage targets and nationwide safety targets of america by bettering the safety of a associate nation that could be a power for political stability and financial progress in Europe,” the company famous. 

“The proposed sale will enhance Ukraine’s functionality to fulfill present and future threats by guaranteeing its pilots are successfully skilled and by growing its interoperability with america via complete coaching with the U.S. Air Power,” DSCA added. “This proposed sale aligns with worldwide coalition contributions for the institution of Ukraine’s F-16 program and the general modernization of Ukraine’s air power.” 

The funding fund, which is predicted to generate income via oil, fuel and mineral rights licenses bought in Ukraine, permits the Trump administration a brand new path to ship weapons and navy gear to Kyiv with out spending taxpayer {dollars}. 

“If, after the efficient date, the Authorities of america of America delivers new navy help to the Authorities of Ukraine in any type — together with the donation of weapons programs, ammunition, expertise or coaching — the capital contribution of the U.S. Accomplice will probably be deemed to be elevated by the assessed worth of such navy help,” the mineral deal mentioned.

Precisely how a lot both sides will probably be required to contribute to the fund has but to be decided.