Norway confirmed on April 16 that it will no longer provide maintenance support for Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets after completing deliveries to Romania. Kongsberg Aviation Maintenance Services and the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency told the Ministry of Defence in a joint statement issued April 10. Norway has agreed to sell 32 F-16s to Romania, and once those transfers are complete, no spare parts or maintenance equipment will remain in Norway.
The six F-16s already delivered to Ukraine will face maintenance challenges. Without access to Norwegian support, Ukraine cannot repair or service these aircraft locally. The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency said the parts provided to Romania are no longer available for other operators.
The Norwegian government has not announced plans to replace the lost maintenance capacity. Ukraine’s air force has relied on Western fighter jets since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. The F-16s were expected to improve Ukraine’s air defense and strike capabilities.
The development comes as NATO allies continue to debate long-term fighter jet support for Ukraine. Norway’s decision highlights the strain on limited maintenance infrastructure across donor countries. Without Norwegian support, Ukraine may need to turn to other partners for F-16 repairs.
The Norwegian Defence Ministry said it is reviewing options but has not provided further details.
Source: tu.no