Ukrainian pilot evaluates the F‑16

The F-16, a fighter jet that Kyiv has long sought after, is viewed as a unit that could significantly increase its chances of overcoming Russia. One of the Ukrainian pilots currently training on these aircraft attests to this belief. He considers the F-16 superior in almost every aspect compared to the MiG-29 and Su-27, traditionally used by their military and post-Soviet Russia.

"The F-16 is like a Swiss Army knife. It's an excellent weapon capable of carrying out any mission," explained the Ukrainian pilot, known by the call sign Moonfish, in a conversation with CNN.

The Ukrainian serviceman suggests that the American fighter could be highly beneficial due to its armament and several other features, making it suitable for various missions. These include providing air cover for ground units, attacking enemy ground targets, aircraft, and helicopters, and intercepting launched missiles.

Equipped with a standard six-barrel M61 Vulcan 20 mm caliber gun, the F-16 fighters can also carry larger-caliber-mounted weapons. This assortment includes AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM or the anti-ship AGM-84D Harpoon, and bombs such as CBU-87, CBU-89, GBU-10, GBU-12, Paveway, or JDAM.

Moonfish is particularly impressed with the F-16's in-flight behavior. The Ukrainian pilot also appreciates the constantly improving software of the American fighter, a stark contrast to the dated systems of the MiG-29 and Su-27, primarily developed in the late 80s and ill-adapted to modern threats like drones.

"The F-16 is incredibly agile. It promotes an aggressive piloting style," remarked Moonfish.

It's important to note that the F-16 is a fighter jet measuring about 49 feet long and can reach Mach 2, or over 1305 mph.

Yuriy Ihnat, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force Command, stated several weeks prior that six months should be sufficient to train the pilots assigned to operate the F-16s supporting infantry units. While Moonfish agrees that the specified time is adequate, he noted that Ukrainian pilots are undergoing "accelerated training" to master only the basic capabilities of the F-16.

The F-16 fighters are anticipated to arrive in Ukraine next year. Several countries have confirmed the transfer, promising to provide several dozen units. Ukraine will rely on Poland, among others, for servicing and repairing their F-16 fleet.