Zelensky Announces Successful Use of F16s Against Russian Missiles
Ukrainian President Reports Successful Combat Engagement
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently announced that Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets have been used in combat against the Russians for the first time. He claims that these jets have successfully intercepted and destroyed incoming missiles and drones. Zelensky made these comments in English during a press briefing, but did not provide extensive details.
First Batch of F-16s Arrived Earlier This Month
The first batch of F-16s, donated by European countries and approved by Washington, arrived in Ukraine earlier this month. The exact number of jets currently in Ukraine's possession and their operational locations remain undisclosed.
Recent Russian Airstrikes Target Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure
Between Monday and Tuesday, Russia launched one of its largest waves of airstrikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure. Despite Ukraine possibly operating a dozen or more US-made F-16s, Russia was still able to overwhelm Ukraine's air defenses, targeting 15 out of 24 oblasts and causing widespread power outages.
Kiev Reports Low Success Rate for Russian Projectiles
Kiev has reported that only about 10% of Russian projectiles fired in the large-scale attack on Monday hit their targets. This figure includes over 100 missiles and an equal number of drones.
Russian FM Warns of Threat from Ukrainian Armed Forces
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has previously warned that the Kremlin views the Ukrainian armed forces' possession of such systems as a nuclear threat from the West.
Zelensky Calls for More Jets
Despite the current supply of F-16s, Zelensky is pushing for more jets to defend Ukraine's airspace. The Economist reports that ten jets have been delivered so far, out of a total of 79 pledged. However, Zelensky believes that his armed forces need at least 128 to effectively counter the well-armed Russians.
Photographs of F-16s in Ukraine Emerge
Photographs of F-16s parked at undisclosed locations in Ukraine have been released this month. The Wall Street Journal has also reported that the Pentagon is equipping Ukraine's jets with AGM-88 HARM missiles, bomb sights, diameter bombs, AMRAAM advanced air-to-air missiles, and AIM-9X short-range air-to-air missiles. The arms supply to Kiev continues to escalate, with no signs of slowing down.
Bottom Line
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to escalate, with Ukraine now utilising Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets in combat. Despite the increased firepower, Russia's recent large-scale attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure has highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Ukrainian armed forces. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let them know about the situation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered every day at 6pm.
