Deputy Minister of Defense of Ukraine for Aviation Development Oleksandr Kozenko held a meeting with a delegation from the Ministry of Defense of the Netherlands, headed by Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force Lieutenant General André Steur. The talks focused on strengthening the aviation capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

This was reported by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

During the meeting, Oleksandr Kozenko emphasized that Ukraine highly values its cooperation with the Netherlands. He expressed gratitude to the Dutch side for its support in the struggle for independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, including the provision of seven assistance packages aimed at enhancing the aviation capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

According to the Deputy Minister, more than 300 Ukrainian aviation specialists have already undergone training in the Netherlands, with another ten expected to complete training by the end of the year.

During the talks, the parties focused on several key areas of cooperation:

  • training of aviation personnel;

  • professional military education;

  • modernization, re-equipment, and maintenance of the aircraft fleet.

Oleksandr Kozenko noted the Netherlands’ leadership within the Aviation Capabilities Coalition and proposed expanding the Coalition to include the development of the helicopter component of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ aviation branch.

“Helicopters, in addition to their traditional roles, are now also part of Ukraine’s air defense. Therefore, we propose creating a helicopter division within the Aviation Capabilities Coalition, which would strengthen the development of army aviation. For our part, we are ready to share our experience in employing helicopters under modern warfare conditions”, — emphasized the Deputy Minister.

In turn, André Steur expressed admiration for the courage of the Ukrainian people in their fight against the Russian aggressor.

“Today, Ukraine is defending not only itself but all of Europe”, — the lieutenant general stressed.