The Royal Danish Air Force officially retired its fleet of F-16 fighter jets on January 18, 2026, after 46 years of service. Denmark introduced these aircraft, having initially acquired 77 units, in 1980. A farewell ceremony was conducted at Skrydstrup Air Base, featuring four F-16s performing a final flight over Danish airspace.
History and Impact of the F-16
The F-16 fighter jet was developed by General Dynamics in the early 1970s by skilled analysts and engineers. They aimed to create a lighter, more maneuverable aircraft, resulting in the innovative fighter known for its speed and agility. The F-16’s advanced technologies, such as fly-by-wire systems and head-up displays, enhanced its capabilities over time.
Throughout its service, the F-16 showcased versatility. Notably, during Operation Desert Storm in 1991, it played crucial roles in bombing missions and air-to-air combat. To date, over 4,500 F-16s have been produced globally.
Transition to the F-35A Lightning II
Denmark is replacing its F-16s with the F-35A Lightning II, a modern multirole fighter jet. The Danish Defense Ministry has purchased a total of 43 F-35s, with the first jets received in 2023. By April 1, 2025, F-35s began operations in NATO’s Quick Reaction Alert mission.
- F-35A Specifications: The F-35A is a single-seat aircraft powered by a Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 engine, providing 40,000 pounds of thrust.
- Significance: Denmark’s adoption of the F-35A makes it the third air force globally—after Norway and the Netherlands—to transition to a fleet solely comprised of fifth-generation fighter jets.
Future of the Retired F-16s
Despite their age, Denmark’s F-16 fleet will continue to serve in different capacities rather than being retired to scrap. A fraction of the retired jets will be donated to Ukraine. As part of this initiative, Denmark has committed to provide 19 F-16s to bolster Ukraine’s air force, with the first delivery occurring in August 2024.
- Training Support: Denmark will assist in training Ukrainian pilots and ensuring the operational readiness of the aircraft.
- Usage: The Ukrainian Air Force plans to utilize these F-16s for defense against aerial threats and precision strikes.
Furthermore, a total of 24 F-16s will be sold to Argentina, replenishing its air force after it retired its French Mirage jets in 2015. The U.S. Government facilitated this sale under export regulations, ensuring comprehensive training and parts supply for the Argentine pilots.
The first six F-16s are scheduled for delivery in December 2025, with further batches expected annually until 2028. This strategic move marks an exciting new chapter for Denmark and its allies, as they transition to modern air power, bolstering defense capabilities with advanced aircraft.
