The United States, as part of military assistance to Ukraine, has approved the delivery of highly maneuverable AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles to the Ukrainian Air Force. According to the data, the total cost of the provided missiles is $691 million, and the number of transferred ammunition is about 850-900 units. These missiles should significantly enhance the capabilities of Ukrainian aviation, including F-16 pilots, which are already entering service with the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

AIM-9X Block II is a highly maneuverable missile designed for close air combat and is considered one of the most modern missiles of its class. However, as experts note, in long-range air battles with Russian Su-35S and Su-30SM2 fighters, which are equipped with powerful N035 Irbis radar systems and armed with long-range missiles such as the R-37M and R-77-1, these missiles will not be a "panacea" for Ukrainian pilots.

The main task assigned to the Ukrainian F-16s and their weapons will be to repel massive missile attacks on critical facilities. The Kalibr and Kh-101 missiles used by the Russian side pose a serious threat to Ukraine's infrastructure, and the task of providing cover from such attacks may fall on the shoulders of pilots armed with AIM-9X. Despite the fact that these missiles are designed for close combat, their high maneuverability characteristics make them effective in intercepting cruise missiles.

In addition, there is a more likely version of the purpose of such large deliveries of missiles. It is expected that the F-16s will be used not only for protection against air threats, but also to cover strike groups. In this case, AIM-9X missiles will be used to repel attacks by Russian fighters, which will ensure the safety of aircraft that will carry out strikes on ground and air targets.