Ukraine has received its first F-16 fighter jets, according to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. At a ceremony held at an undisclosed airbase, Zelenskyy proudly announced, “F-16s in Ukraine. We did it,” while standing beside two of the jets.
President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the allies who provided these jets, noting that more are needed to strengthen Ukraine’s air force, which currently relies on outdated Soviet-era aircraft. Although the exact number of jets received was not disclosed, Zelenskyy thanked Denmark, the Netherlands, and the US for their support.
Since US President Joe Biden authorized European allies to send F-16s to Ukraine in August 2023, about 65 of these jets have been pledged by NATO countries. The F-16, introduced in 1978, is being replaced in many Western militaries by the newer F-35.
The UK, which does not have F-16s, is supplying long-range Storm Shadow missiles compatible with the jets. Ukraine’s F-16s will be used alongside Western surface-to-air missile systems like Patriot and Nasams, which are already in place.
These new jets are expected to enhance Ukraine’s ability to strike deep into occupied areas and defend against Russian glide bombs. Around 3,000 glide bombs were used in March, mostly from Su-34 fighter-bombers.
If Ukraine can protect its F-16s, they could play a crucial role in countering Russian air attacks and supporting ground forces, especially in the conflict-ridden Donbas region. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has warned that Western-made F-16s will be targeted and claimed their impact on the front lines will be minimal.