US approves possible sale of F-16 training and maintenance services to Ukraine for USD 310.5 million

The US Department of State has approved a possible sale to the Government of Ukraine of training services and related equipment to support F-16 aircraft worth USD 310.5 million.

This was reported by the US Department of Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which was informed about this by the US Congress.

It is noted that the Ukrainian government has requested the purchase of equipment and services necessary for the operation and maintenance of F-16 aircraft.

"In particular, this concerns the modification and modernization of aircraft, personnel training, spare parts, consumables, equipment for repair and return, ground equipment, software supply, as well as technical documentation, engineering, logistics and other services," the message says.

The DSCA notes that the proposed sale will contribute to the achievement of the foreign policy and security objectives of the United States by strengthening the defense capabilities of Ukraine, a partner country that plays an important role in ensuring political stability and economic progress in Europe.

It is specified that the proposed sale will improve the training of Ukrainian pilots and increase interoperability with the United States Armed Forces. It is also part of a broader international initiative to create a Ukrainian F-16 program and modernize the Ukrainian Air Force.

Among the prime contractors are Valiant Integrated Services (Virginia), Top Aces Corporation (Arizona), Lockheed Martin Aeronautics (Texas), Pratt and Whitney (Connecticut), Snap-on, Inc. (Virginia), BAE Systems, Inc. (Virginia), AAR Corporation (Illinois), and Comsetra, LLC (Oklahoma).

The US government is not currently aware of any compensation agreements within the framework of this potential sale. Their conclusion will depend on the agreements between the buyer and the contractor.

It is noted that the implementation of the agreement will not require the deployment of additional US government representatives or contractors to Ukraine.

The final amount of the agreement will depend on specific needs, budgetary decisions and concluded contracts.