F‑16s boost Ukraine's airpower with precision strike capability
In an interview published by the Ukrainian Air Force, a Ukrainian F-16 pilot discussed combat missions, tactics, and the application of Western technologies. The pilot, whose identity remains undisclosed, emphasized the high effectiveness of using the fighter jets provided by Western allies.
The Ukrainian Air Force shared information from an F-16 pilot detailing Ukraine's daily air operations, reports Defence Express. The pilot highlighted the Ukrainian forces' high efficiency in utilizing Western technology in combat.
F-16 in Ukraine
The pilot explained that F-16s are used almost daily for various missions, including strikes on targets beyond the front line, on Russian territory, and in temporarily occupied areas. In addition to offensive strikes, these fighter jets provide air cover for other aircraft, such as the MiG-29, Su-27, and Su-25.
The pilot noted the high effectiveness of missile attacks, stating that over 80% of the launched missiles hit their targets. This applies not only to Shahed drones but also to cruise missiles launched by Russians from sea, air, and land platforms.
The Ukrainian Air Force has been reinforced with F-16 fighter jets, providing significant strength in the ongoing conflict with Russia. Several European countries, including Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, have delivered these versatile combat aircraft. All the F-16s delivered are versions A/B MLU Block 10/15, which have undergone a Mid-Life Update program to adapt to modern combat standards.
The armament of these fighters includes a wide range of air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM, air-to-ground missiles, AGM-65 Maverick missiles, and GBU-12 Paveway II guided bombs. This enables Ukrainian F-16s to carry out missions in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat effectively.
