F‑16s set to transform Ukraine's defense against Russian bombers
6:27 PM EDT, April 26, 2024
F-16s poised to counter Russian forces
Chernyk asserts, "As soon as a Su-34 is detected, it's practically doomed. It might evade one F-16, but not two or three. A group of F-16s can cooperate to down multiple enemy Su-34s." In this context, he highlights the significance of the F-16's AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles.
Challenges in supplying F-16s to Ukraine
F-16 fighters offer a broader array of weaponry compared to current Ukrainian aviation and superior sensors and self-defense systems. They also promote "aggressive flying" techniques among Ukrainian pilots in training, reaching speeds of up to Mach 2 (over 1300 mph).
However, Ukraine's main challenge may lie not in the F-16s' capabilities but in the delays in receiving them. Although Western allies have pledged to send several units to the front, the earliest deliveries are expected this summer and will initially comprise only a few fighters.