Ukraine urges citizens: Hold off on posting F‑16 sightings
The Ukrainian Air Force issued an appeal on March 21 to citizens, urging them not to post recordings of the new F-16 fighter jets on social media. They emphasized that even short clips could provide Russia with valuable intelligence, potentially helping them target these crucial machines. 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 provide the enemy with critical data. Russian intelligence services, known for their advanced reconnaissance capabilities, could use such information for precise targeting, as reported by Bulgarian Military. It is important to note that both Ukraine and Russia have experienced instances where internet posts revealed the locations of troops and equipment, leading to serious consequences.
Photos and videos can be used by foreign intelligence services
As previously reported, photos and videos posted online serve as sources of information for foreign intelligence regarding army relocation, movement of specific units, their numbers, ongoing activities, and military equipment. Furthermore, photos or videos can contain metadata, including the time they were taken and GPS coordinates. Therefore, appeals for restraint in such publications are not new, especially concerning valuable equipment like F-16 fighter jets.
Ukraine is receiving additional promised F-16 jets from Western allies. The current number of aircraft that have reached the pilots is unknown, but it is worth noting 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, and there is talk of up to 80 planes in total, which would strengthen Ukraine's air combat and defense capabilities.
F-16 in Ukraine
Ukraine has primarily received F-16AM/BM Block 20 MLU (Mid-Life Update) versions, upgraded to a standard similar to the F-16C/D Block 50/52. These are multi-role fighters that have undergone comprehensive modernization of avionics, radar, and electronic warfare systems. At their core is the AN/APG-66(V)2 radar, featuring enhanced capabilities for tracking air and ground targets. The upgrades also include the cockpit, where pilots can use color 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. Typically, these 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, specialized in countering enemy radars.
