Ukrainians deploy decoy F‑16s to outsmart rivals and conserve resources
Ukrainians are creating their decoy models of F-16 fighters to confuse the enemy. Available information suggests that a private Ukrainian company is responsible for their production. Using such decoys on the battlefield results in the opponent wasting ammunition on destroying dummy targets, which leads to the depletion of their resources.
Photographs published on social media show F-16 fighter models produced in Ukraine. These models closely resemble the originals of similar size and bearing Ukrainian markings. It is possible that they are also equipped with special heaters and metal elements or parts coated with metallic paint, designed to generate a thermal and radar signature similar to that of a real F-16. This is intended to deceive enemy thermal cameras and radar systems.
F-16 pretending to be originals
Analysis of previously published social media photos and videos suggests that the Ukrainian organisation Apate, which has previously supported the Armed Forces of Ukraine, is behind the production of these decoys. The organisation has supplied the military with various military equipment models, including these F-16 fighter decoys. Photographs published in mid-2024 show the same production hall as the latest images.
The decoys are intended to protect the real F-16 fighters that Ukraine received from Western allies. Notably, the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium, and Norway have committed to delivering over 60 F-16 fighters. Most of these aircraft are A/AM versions, which underwent appropriate upgrades before delivery. By the end of 2024, Ukraine received approximately 20 fighters. At the beginning of 2025, more F-16s were delivered to the country by the Netherlands. However, it is not known how many arrived in Ukraine.
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American multirole fighter jet that has been the cornerstone of the air forces of many countries for decades. Designed in the 1970s, it has gained a reputation as a reliable and versatile combat aircraft. Its maximum speed is approximately 2,410 kilometres per hour, and its combat range extends to 550 kilometres. This aircraft can operate at altitudes up to 15,240 metres.
The F-16 is capable of carrying up to 7,711 kilograms of combat load. It is equipped with various air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder or AIM-120 AMRAAM, as well as air-to-ground missiles, and both guided and unguided bombs. This allows it to carry out missions against both aerial and ground targets effectively.
