New F‑16s aid Ukraine in repelling Russian military advances
More problems for the Russian military on the front. The Ukrainians are taking full advantage of the F-16 fighters handed over to them. Western weapons are also destroying Russian Su-25 aircraft, which are worth tens of millions of pounds. But that's not all; even bolder combat actions are being planned.
The Ukrainian armed forces can now utilise the power of the F-16s. These aircraft were delivered by allies. The first fighters arrived in Ukraine three weeks ago. This is part of the batch promised by Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway.
The Ukrainian military is already boasting that the aircraft immediately engaged in combat. No ordinary combat. The fighters are excelling in the fight against enemy missiles.
The F-16s were used to repel a massive missile attack that occurred on 26 August. The aircraft shot down Russian drones and combat missiles. Thanks to the use of the F-16s, many Russian targets were not achieved.
MANPADS, a man-portable air defence system, also plays a crucial role in aerial skirmishes. The missiles from this system stopped the Russian Su-25s, which are worth over 15 million pounds.
A particularly spectacular MANPADS attack on a Sukhoi Su-25 attack aircraft near Kramatorsk was noteworthy. The Russian jet had launched flares to mark Ukrainian positions and prepare for a Russian attack.
Ultimately, the Russian pilot did not complete his mission. He was shot down just above the ground, turning into a genuine ball of fire. This feat was accomplished by members of the 28th Mechanised Brigade's air defence unit. A video of the Su-25 being shot down has surfaced online.
Will the F-16s also assist in Russian Federation territory?
It should be added that the Ukrainians want the F-16 fighters to be used during an offensive in the Kursk region. This, however, requires the consent of, among others, the United States.
Poland had a significant role in delivering the F-16s to Ukraine. Our country serves as the logistical hub for these aircraft. At this moment, our government has not yet handed over any F-16s to the Ukrainian military. It is unknown if and when such a decision might be made.
