The deal, classified as a separate commercial transaction, includes upgrades, spare parts, training, and technical support provided by U.S. defense firms including Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, and AAR Corporation.
Ukraine has been using these aircraft, which were previously supplied by U.S. allies. The transfer of American fighter jets required approval from the administration of former President Joe Biden.
The assistance package will also cover aircraft modifications, pilot and crew training, maintenance support, software, spare parts, and classified technical documentation.
"I thank everyone who is strengthening our actions in the skies," President Zelenskyy said, referring to "the F-16s that are already in Ukraine, the F-16s we expect in the near future, and the systemic solutions that will help us prepare and use our military aviation more effectively," in a post on his X (formerly Twitter) profile.
Russian drone strike on Kharkiv injures dozens, sparks fires
Based on the latest confirmed reports from news agencies, Russian drones struck Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, injuring at least 47 people, including an 11-year-old child.
The latest attack triggered fires, damaged a residential building, vehicles, and a store, while Ukrainian air defences intercepted several drones, with debris falling across multiple neighborhoods.
Maryna, 20, holds her cat Sirius in her damaged flat at the site of a drone strike near a residential building in Kharkiv, Ukraine, 02 May 2025, amid the Russian invasion. Ten fires occurred in various areas of Kharkiv due to strikes and falling debris. At least 47 people were injured, including one child, according to the National Police. Photo: SERGEY KOZLOV/PAP/EPA
„Right now, Russia is yet again attacking Ukraine. Kharkiv has been hit by dozens of "Shahed" drones. Residential buildings, enterprises, and civilian infrastructure have been damaged. As of now, more than 40 people have been reported injured. Rescuers and relevant services are working everywhere,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a statement posted on social media at 11:15 p.m. on May 2.
Daily life in Kyiv amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A young Ukrainian disabled veteran walks past a makeshift memorial to the fallen Ukrainian servicemen and international volunteers, in Independence Square in Kyiv, Ukraine, 02 May 2025, amid the Russian invasion. Photo: SERGEY DOLZHENKO/PAP/EPA
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Source: IAR/PAP/X/@StateDeptPM/@ZelenskyyUa