Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the βloginβ button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
Ukraine has reportedly received its first F-16 fighter jets, which the country has argued is crucial for countering Russian missile strikes.
What’s the deal: US officials, speaking anonymously to various outlets, have confirmed that F-16 fighter jets arrived in Ukraine within the last 48 hours. While the exact number of jets in this initial delivery is still unknown, this marks a significant milestone for Ukraine in bolstering its air defenses with advanced Western weaponry. It remains unclear which countries provided the F-16s, although earlier reports suggested that the Danish and Dutch governments were close to supplying them to Ukraine.
How long has Ukraine been asking for F-16s?: Since the start of the war, Ukraine has been urgently seeking F-16 fighter jets. Officials argue these jets are desperately needed to counter missile strikes from Russia and effectively suppress the Russian Air Force.
Training: Ukrainian pilots have undergone extensive training, primarily facilitated by the United States, to operate F-16 fighter jets. This rigorous process took about a year, with the first group of pilots having recently graduated. Their training included:
- Mastering the advanced systems and capabilities of the F-16s.
- Learning English.
- Ensuring they are fully prepared to use these jets effectively in combat.
Russia’s vow: Russia has pledged to destroy any F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine, seeing their delivery as a major escalation by NATO. In response, Ukraine has taken precautionary steps by storing some of the F-16s outside its borders to protect them from potential Russian attacks.
