Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky officially revealed that Ukraine has received the first batch of promised F-16s. These fighters, which were retired by European countries and supplied with US assistance, aim to revitalize the Ukrainian air force. Denmark and other countries have already given Ukraine the green light to attack targets inside Russia.
Zelensky made an announcement Sunday at an undisclosed air base, with two F-16s prominently displayed and others flying overhead. The delivery of F-16s to Ukraine is taking place gradually, with 20 fighters expected to operate by the end of 2024 and more units scheduled for 2025. The delivery of Belgium's last F-16s is expected to be completed by 2028.
The aircraft were seen with medium-range AIM-120 AMRAAM and short-range AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. It is plausible that the US or other partners are handing over stripped structures as decoy targets, as Russia will likely consider destroying these jets a top priority.
F-16s, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, were among Ukraine's top desires for their destructive power and wide availability on the global market. These fighters come with a 20mm cannon and have the ability to carry bombs, rockets and missiles.
Zelensky mentioned to reporters at an airfield that Ukraine still doesn't have enough trained pilots or enough jets.
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