TechUkraine eyes F-16 advantage to counter Russian air tactics

Ukraine eyes F‑16 advantage to counter Russian air tactics

F-16

Images source: © Getty Images | Ezra Acayan

12:41 PM EST, March 3, 2024

Serhij Kuzan pointed to recent instances where Ukrainians successfully downed up to 13 Russian aircraft. This achievement has led to a noticeable decrease in enemy air activity over Ukraine. Still, the continued use of Su-34 fighter bombers and KAB (guided aerial bombs, which can weigh up to about 3307 lbs) remains a significant obstacle for Ukraine's defense forces.

The expert argues that Ukraine could nullify this advantage upon acquiring the promised F-16 fighters with long-range missiles. Adding air defense systems like the Patriot, recently mentioned by the Ukrainian president, would significantly bolster Ukraine's defense capabilities.

"They will certainly try to disorient us and attack unnoticed. They are well aware that their time is limited, that the Su-34 and guided aerial bombs are their primary advantage over our forces along the front line. So, they will exploit this edge while they can," Serhij Kuzan explained in statements collected by the Unian agency.

What can F-16s do?

NATO countries have pledged several F-16 fighters to support Ukraine, indicating a coalition's backing. Although reports suggested that F-16s might have already seen action on the front lines, their official deployment in Ukraine is expected in the coming weeks.

Ukrainian pilots training on these American jets have praised their advanced capabilities and operational comfort. Among the notable features of the F-16s are the standard six-barrel M61 Vulcan 20 mm cannon and their ability to carry a wide array of armaments. This includes missile systems like the AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, or the AGM-84D Harpoon anti-ship missile, as well as various bombs such as the CBU-87, CBU-89, GBU-10, GBU-12, Paveway, and JDAM. The F-16s can reach a maximum speed of up to 2 Mach (over 1305 mph).