The first batch of F-16 fighter jets has arrived in Ukraine, fulfilling a long-standing wish of the country to rebuild its depleted air force. Ukraine has been eager to acquire the F-16s due to their destructive power and global availability. The fighter jets are equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, rockets, and missiles. The delivery of the jets was confirmed by Lithuania’s foreign minister and a US official, although the Ukrainian government has not yet confirmed receipt. The US has been training Ukrainian pilots on how to fly the jets and has already graduated the first group of pilots.
US President Joe Biden authorized sending the US-built warplanes to Ukraine in August 2023, after months of pressure from Kyiv and internal debate within the US administration. In addition to the US, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, all NATO members, have committed to providing Ukraine with more than 60 planes. However, Ukrainian officials state that they need at least 130 F-16 fighter jets to neutralize Russian air power. The F-16s can fly up to twice the speed of sound and have a maximum range of over 2,000 miles.
The arrival of the F-16 jets marks a significant step in Ukraine’s efforts to bolster its air defense capabilities in the face of the ongoing conflict with Russia. This development comes after months of pushing by Ukraine and its Western allies for the supply of advanced weaponry to combat the missile attacks from Russia.
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