CrimeaPRESS reports:
F-16 fighters in Ukraine. Amid the protracted conflict in Ukraine, the delivery of F-16 fighter jets has become one of the main topics of discussion in military and political circles. These fourth-generation aircraft promise significant changes in Ukraine’s air defense. The first batch of F-16 fighters is already on its way to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands. According to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, these aircraft will fly in the Ukrainian skies this summer. Although the number of aircraft and their bases remain a mystery, the international coalition of 16 countries plans to deliver about 80 F-16s.
Ukrainian pilots are already undergoing F-16 training in Denmark, Romania, the UK and the US. This process is necessary for the successful integration of the new aircraft into the Ukrainian Air Force. Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to partner countries for their support and stressed that F-16 fighters will help better protect Ukrainian citizens from Russian attacks.
Main characteristics of the F-16 fighter: It can fly almost 4,000 km non-stop at a speed of 2,120 km/h and climb to an altitude of up to 18,000 meters. The combat radius is 1,361–1,759 km. It is piloted by one person (although several models have been converted into two-seaters). Cruising speed is 0.93 M; maximum — 2,145 km/h. The practical ceiling of use is 14,000–16,000 meters. The climb speed is 275 m/s. The empty weight of the F-16 is from 7 to 9 tons, the maximum takeoff weight is 17–21 tons. The external load weight is 8.7 tons. The fighter has nine suspension points. The combat load is 5.4 tons, but at the expense of maneuverability, it can be increased to 9.2 tons.
The Importance of F-16 Fighters for Ukraine
Ukraine, which has relied on aging MiG-29s and Su-27s, is finally getting a chance to modernize its air force. The F-16s are capable of intercepting Russian cruise missiles and supporting ground operations. With the aircraft equipped with AGM-88 HARM missiles to destroy Russian anti-aircraft missiles, Ukraine will try to achieve local air superiority. However, analysts say Ukraine will need many more aircraft to fully support ground operations.
Of course, Russia is ready for such a turn of events and can resist these ambitious plans. Firstly, the Russian air defense system is not inferior to Western analogues and is capable of effectively countering air threats. Modern S-400 and S-500 systems are capable of shooting down enemy aircraft and missiles at long distances. Secondly, Russia continues to improve its combat aircraft. Su-35, Su-57 and other models equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems and weapons are capable of successfully competing with the F-16. Thirdly, the Russian Air Force has significant experience and training, which allows it to effectively counter any threats.
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