F‑16s bolster Ukrainian defences against Russian threats
The Ukrainians are making intensive use of the limited number of F-16 aircraft supplied to them to safeguard their airspace. We examine how these Western aircraft are assisting in the fight against Russian aggression.
Below, you can see footage showing the return of an F-16A/B MLU aircraft to its deployment location somewhere in Ukraine after a mission. A frame-by-frame analysis suggests it is unarmed, except for two internal wing pylons. These can carry a combination of an external fuel tank and a targeting or electronic warfare pod.
F-16 in Ukraine — aircraft supporting air defence
At present, the F-16 aircraft appear to be mainly used by the Ukrainians to support air defence by targeting drones and cruise missiles, while MiG-29 aircraft focus on strike missions.
The reason for this might be the need for additional training for Ukrainian pilots and the F-16's superior ability to detect low-flying targets. Even a small fleet of F-16s represents a substantial reinforcement because Ukraine lacks the capability to deploy anti-aircraft systems every few tens of miles.
It's more effective to use an aircraft capable of patrolling an area of several hundred miles. Furthermore, the Ukrainians can use F-16s equipped with AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles to down Russian aircraft, such as the Su-34, which are capable of launching glide bombs — an event that has already taken place.
F-16A/B MLU after modifications — NATO retirees that intimidate Russia
Ukraine has received F-16AM/BM aircraft that underwent a Mid-Life Update (MLU) in the 1990s. These aircraft were further modified before being delivered to Ukraine, which involved removing certain elements reserved for NATO countries and incorporating new technologies. As a result, these planes now possess significantly enhanced capabilities compared to standard MLU versions.
The models supplied to Ukraine were designed to be compatible with modern armaments, including French AASM Hammer bombs. The aircraft have also been equipped with advanced targeting pods such as the AN/ASQ-213 HTS, enabling the full utilisation of armaments like AGM-88 HARM anti-radar missiles.
There is potential that modifications have also enhanced the AN/APG-66 or AN/APG-68 radars, possibly integrating newer technologies like the AN/APG-83 SABR for improved performance.
Regarding weaponry, the F-16's standard armament includes a six-barrel M61A1 Vulcan 20 mm cannon and eleven pylons with a total payload capacity of 7 tonnes. Two of these, located at the wing tips, are designated for AIM-9 Sidewinder short-range missiles. Common practice involves occupying two to three pylons with targeting or electronic warfare pods and fuel tanks, leaving six pylons available for additional armaments.
