Oleksandr Kozenko discusses the development of Ukraine’s aviation capabilities with a delegation of the Dutch Ministry of Defence

Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine for Aviation Development, Oleksandr Kozenko, held a meeting with a delegation from the Dutch Ministry of Defence, led by Lieutenant General André Steur, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force.  The talks focused on enhancing the Armed Forces of Ukraine's aviation capabilities.

During the meeting, Oleksandr Kozenko emphasised that Ukraine highly values its cooperation with the Netherlands. He expressed gratitude to the Dutch side for its support in defending Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, including the provision of seven assistance packages aimed at developing 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 their training by the end of the year.

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

• training of aviation personnel;
• professional military education;
• modernisation, conversion, and overhaul of the aircraft fleet

Oleksandr Kozenko highlighted the Netherlands’ leadership in the Air Force Capability Coalition and proposed expanding it to include the helicopter component of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s aviation branch.

“Helicopters, beyond their traditional role, have also become a part of Ukraine’s air defence system. Therefore, we propose creating a dedicated helicopter strand within the Air Force Capability Coalition to further advance the development of the Army Aviation. For our part, we are ready to share our experience in employing helicopters in modern warfare,” emphasised the Deputy Minister.

In turn, Lieutenant General André Steur expressed admiration for the bravery of the Ukrainian people in their fight against russian aggression.