TechUkraine's game-changer. F-16s set to outmaneuver Russian defences

Ukraine's game-changer. F‑16s set to outmaneuver Russian defences

F-16 fighters - illustrative photo

Images source: © Getty Images | 2022 Anadolu Agency

3:51 PM EDT, May 2, 2024

Petro Czernyk, a colonel in the Ukrainian armed forces and a military expert, believes that adding F-16 fighters would significantly strengthen his country's military. Despite potential delivery delays, which could give the Russians time to prepare, he asserts that they will be disadvantaged in some scenarios, especially with certain missiles.

"The enemy cannot be fully prepared for such a machine. The crucial aspect is the F-16's targeting system, which will be exceptionally effective against KAB (glide bomb) carriers. While it can't shoot down the bombs directly, Su-34 bombers will be easy targets. Just a pair of F-16s could carry as many as 12 potent missiles," Czernyk explained.

F-16 equipped with AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles

It's important to note that the Russians have been using Su-34s to carry and release KABs, which they consider a "wonder weapon." A countermeasure could include additional anti-aircraft defense systems or equipping F-16 fighters with AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM).

An F-16 can be armed with up to six AIM-120 AMRAAM-guided missiles. These air-to-air missiles feature an active radar guidance system that enables them to seek and destroy targets with remarkable accuracy. Depending on the missile version, the AIM-120 AMRAAM can hit targets from approximately 62 to 99 miles away.

F-16s' surprise advantage

Czernyk highlights the crucial role of surprise in warfare. He acknowledges that the delay in F-16 deliveries might allow Russia to optimize its anti-aircraft defenses. However, they cannot alter the innate capabilities of AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles or the inherent advantages of the US-made fighters.

The F-16 boasts speeds of up to 2 Mach, over 1300 mph, and can operate at altitudes of up to about 49,000 ft. Czernyk believes these features will enhance the element of surprise, complicating Russian efforts to detect these high-speed fighters, which can also operate seamlessly at night.

Several NATO countries have formed a coalition in 2023 to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighters, with the first batches expected to arrive at the front lines in the summer of this year.