First F-16s in Ukraine: Kyiv will begin carrying out strikes within 48 hours

Ukraine recently received the first batch of F-16 fighters from NATO allies. This event could mark a significant turning point in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, providing Kyiv with new capabilities to repel attacks and improve its defense capabilities. However, the delivery of these aircraft comes with a number of challenges that must be taken into account.

Strategic Importance of F-16 Delivery

F-16 fighters are multirole combat aircraft, highly maneuverable and equipped with modern weapons and electronics systems. Their entry into service with the Armed Forces of Ukraine can significantly strengthen the aviation power of Ukraine. In the next 48 hours, Ukraine plans to begin using F-16s to strike Russian positions, which could significantly change the dynamics of the fighting.

The main types of weapons that can be used by Ukrainian F-16s include:

Guided air-to-air missiles:

The AIM-120 AMRAAM (Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile) is a medium-range missile with an active radar homing head, designed to destroy air targets at long ranges.

The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a close-in infrared missile designed to engage maneuvering air targets.

Guided air-to-ground missiles:

The AGM-65 Maverick is a tactical air-to-ground guided missile designed to destroy armored vehicles, fortifications and other ground targets.

AGM-88 HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile) is an anti-radar missile designed to destroy enemy radar stations and air defense systems.

Bombs:

The GBU-12 Paveway II is a laser-guided bomb designed for high-precision destruction of ground targets.

JDAM (Joint Direct Attack Munition) is a kit for equipping conventional bombs with a satellite guidance system, which allows them to be converted into high-precision guided munitions.

Automatic gun:

The M61 Vulcan is a six-barreled 20mm cannon with a rotating barrel block, designed to engage air and ground targets at close ranges.

Existing problems

One of the main problems Ukraine faces is training pilots to fly the F-16. Despite the fact that Ukrainian pilots were trained abroad, including the United States, the language barrier and the need to master new technology take time. The issue also concerns the provision of spare parts and maintenance, which are critical to maintaining the combat capability of new aircraft.

The use of the F-16 can significantly increase the combat capabilities of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, but the risks must also be taken into account. The Russian side has powerful air defense systems, such as the S-400 and S-300, which can effectively counter air attacks. To successfully operate the F-16, Ukrainian pilots will need not only technical prowess, but also coordination with ground forces and electronic warfare capabilities.