Ukraine urges caution: Social media posts may expose F‑16s to Russian targeting
On 21 March, the Ukrainian Air Force appealed to citizens not to post recordings of the new F-16 fighter jets on social media. The appeal emphasised that even short clips could provide Russia with valuable intelligence, helping it target these crucial aircraft. The F-16 fighters are indeed a significant support for Ukrainian aerial operations.
The Ukrainian Air Force stresses that even a few seconds of footage can supply the enemy with critical data. According to the Bulgarian military, Russian intelligence services, known for their advanced reconnaissance capabilities, could exploit such information for precise targeting. It is worth noting that both Ukraine and Russia have faced situations where internet posts revealed troop and equipment locations, leading to serious consequences.
Photos and videos can be used by foreign intelligence services
As previously reported, photos and videos posted online are a source of information for foreign intelligence regarding army relocations, movements of specific units, their numbers, ongoing activities, and military equipment. Additionally, photos or videos can contain so-called metadata, which includes the time they were taken and GPS coordinates. Therefore, appeals for restraint in such publications are not new, especially regarding valuable equipment like F-16 fighter jets.
Ukraine is receiving additional promised F-16 jets from Western allies. The current number of aircraft pilots receive is unknown, but it is worth recalling that the Netherlands has pledged to deliver 24 aircraft, Denmark 19 fighters, and Norway between six and 22 fighters. Belgium is also on the list of suppliers, with talk of up to 80 planes set to enhance Ukraine's air combat and defence capabilities.
F-16 in Ukraine
Ukraine has primarily received F-16 AM/BM Block 20 MLU (Mid-Life Update) versions, upgraded to a standard similar to the F-16C/D Block 50/52. These multi-role fighters have comprehensively modernised avionics, radar, and electronic warfare systems. The AN/APG-66(V)2 radar is at its core, with enhanced capabilities for tracking air and ground targets. The upgrades include the cockpit, with pilots using colour multifunction displays and systems compatible with night vision.
The F-16s delivered to Ukraine can carry a wide range of air-to-air missiles and precision bombs. These typically include the American medium-range AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder for close combat. The fighters can also carry JDAM bombs with GPS guidance systems, AGM-154 JSOW glide bombs, and AGM-88 HARM air-to-ground missiles, specialised in countering enemy radars.
