During ‘Ramstein-19,’ the Minister of Defense of Canada announced new military assistance for the Ukrainian Air Force.
Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair announced during the 19th meeting in the ‘Ramstein’ format the country’s contribution of $60 million Canadian dollars (approximately $44 million US dollars) to support the program to equip Ukrainian forces with F-16 fighter jets. This was reported by the Canadian Ministry of Defense press service.
As emphasized by the Canadian minister, this donation will support the establishment of sustainable capabilities for F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine, with the funds assisting in acquiring vital materials and equipment for the aircraft (spare parts, armaments, avionics, and ammunition).
Last month, Blair announced that Canada would support the training of Ukrainian pilots by providing civilian instructors, aircraft, and support staff. This support is valued at approximately $15 million Canadian dollars (about $11 million US dollars) and will run from February 2024 to 2025.
Canada is also conducting English language training for personnel of the Ukrainian Air Force.
The contribution announced during “Ramstein-19” is part of new military aid funding to Ukraine totaling $500 million, which Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in Kyiv in June 2023.
On February 14, the 19th meeting in the “Ramstein” format began, the first with Sirskyi as the new Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.