26-year-old Ukrainian pilot killed in F-16 combat
Photo: Ukrainian F-16 pilot Pavlo Ivanov died in combat (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
A 26-year-old Ukrainian pilot, Pavlo Ivanov, was killed during a mission on an F-16 fighter jet. The tragedy occurred on April 12, according to the Ukrainian Air Force via Telegram.
"Unfortunately, the sad news... On April 12, 2025, during a combat mission on an F-16 aircraft, 26-year-old Pavlo Ivanov was killed," the message states.
The Air Force did not specify the exact location or circumstances of the tragedy. It was noted that all details are being investigated by an interdepartmental commission, which has already begun its work.
"We express our deepest condolences to Pavlo's family. He died in battle, defending his homeland from the occupiers," wrote the Ukrainian Air Force in their post.
The Air Force added that Ukrainian defenders on F-16s carry out combat missions daily across various frontlines under extremely challenging conditions, providing fighter escort for air strike groups and striking enemy targets.
"Ukrainian pilots work to the maximum of human and technical capabilities, constantly risking their lives while performing combat missions. Pavlo was one of them! Eternal flight, Hero!" the Air Force added.
Reaction from Zelenskyy
"Today, sadly, Captain Pavlo Ivanov died in battle on an F-16. He was 26 years old. My condolences to his family and all of Pavlo's comrades," said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
He emphasized that military reports were necessary regarding the combat situation. The circumstances surrounding the pilot’s death are being clarified.
"Ukrainian F-16s, Mirages, MiGs, and all our combat aviation are heroically carrying out military tasks, protecting our country and supporting ground operations. The Air Force is also involved in protecting Ukraine from Russian missiles and drones. We are proud of our warriors. We will respond strongly and accurately," he added.
Death of pilot Oleksii Mes
Recall that in August 2024, it was officially announced that Ukraine had received its first F-16 fighter jets. At the end of the same month, Ukraine lost its first received aircraft.
This happened during the repelling of a massive Russian attack on August 26. It is known that the F-16 was shooting down enemy targets and lost communication while heading for a new target. As a result, the F-16 crashed, and the pilot was killed.
Later, it was revealed that the deceased pilot was experienced aviator Oleksii Mes (Munfish). More about him can be found in an RBC-Ukraine article.
Last month, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine to pilot Oleksii Mes.
