The first F-16s are in Ukraine
Ukraine has long awaited the delivery of F-16 fighter jets. Now, the first machines have arrived in the country. President Zelensky expresses satisfaction and thanks western partners.
Ukraine, according to its President Volodymyr Zelensky, has begun using western F-16 fighter jets. "These jets are in our airspace, and now you see them," Zelensky said on an unknown airbase next to two of the combat aircraft, as two more flew in tight formation overhead. "It's good that they're here and that we can use them." The fighter jets will boost the defense against Russia. "We've done a lot to bring the Ukrainian air force to a new standard, that of western combat aircraft," he said before the assembled soldiers and pilots.
Zelensky recalled the many meetings and discussions with foreign partners about ways to strengthen Ukrainian air defense. Often, the word "impossible" was heard. But: "Now it's a reality in our skies, the F-16s are in Ukraine." A video circulating online shows various flying combat aircraft, including the F-16s, with Ukraine's yellow-blue markings on the wings. The Ukrainian president thanked all foreign partners for their support in acquiring the aircraft.
Zelensky did not provide details on how many combat aircraft have arrived in Ukraine. "So far, the number of F-16s in Ukraine and the number of trained pilots are not yet sufficient," he said. Western media had previously reported that at least ten machines had been handed over to Kyiv.
The Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and Belgium have together promised over 60 of these combat jets to Ukraine and are training Ukrainian pilots and ground personnel. The weapons and equipment of the jets are reportedly coming from the US. Germany, which does not have F-16s in its inventory, did not contribute to this strengthening of the Ukrainian air force.
The F-16 fighter is one of the most capable military jets worldwide and is in use in over two dozen countries. The machines from the US company Lockheed can be used for both air defense and against ground targets, i.e., to repel enemy forces. The F-16 can fly at extremely low altitudes and in any weather.
"The positive thing is that we expect additional F-16s," Zelensky continued. He is confident that the partners of Ukraine could further expand the training of pilots and the education of technicians. "That's very important for us."
Zelensky did not provide details on how the new combat aircraft will be used. According to estimates by Ukrainian military experts, the F-16s are unlikely to be used in direct air combat with Russian machines over the front, as Russia has built a dense air defense network. Additionally, the Russian military may try to destroy the F-16s on their parking spots at Ukrainian bases. A high-ranking Ukrainian military official said some of the F-16 jets could be left on bases abroad to protect them from possible Russian attacks.
After the arrival of the first F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine, President Zelensky stated, "These jets are now in our airspace, and it's good that they're here, as they will significantly boost our defense against Russia." Further, expressing gratitude, Zelensky thanked the foreign partners for their support in providing these advanced aircraft.
