Ukraine creates conditions for deployment of new F-16s by destroying Russian aircraft
Chief of Staff of the Estonian Air Force Colonel Janek Lehiste (err.ee)
Recent Ukrainian military actions have resulted in the downing or disabling of a number of Russian aircraft, allowing Kyiv to create conditions for the deployment of new F-16 fighters, which Ukraine will soon receive from the West, according to the chief of staff of the Estonian Air Force, Colonel Janek Lehiste.
According to him, the situation on the frontline has become more intense, with the initiative shifting into the hands of Russian forces. The military noted that Russia has somewhat altered its tactics, employing aerial fire support for advancement.
"They have found that with aerial fire support, using aircraft can significantly increase the desired effect, as attack aircraft lifting or dropping bombs weighing close to half a ton can inflict significant damage to defense lines," Lehiste explained.
He noted that Russia is risking its planes by flying closer to the combat line.
"As a result, Ukrainians were able to shoot down about 13 aircraft in February," he said.
According to the chief of staff of the Estonian Air Force, Ukraine uses both short and medium-range air defense systems to shoot down Russian aircraft, especially Patriot systems with a range of 150 kilometers.
By retiring Russian aircraft, Ukraine can prepare for the deployment of its own new aircraft, Lehiste said.
"Of course, one could look at this from the perspective that they are creating conditions for the deployment of their new aircraft. Perhaps they are also creating conditions to gain air superiority at a certain time and in a certain geographical area," he said.
The colonel added that Ukraine could receive F-16 fighters from the West in early spring or summer. He stressed that there is no need for significant changes to Ukraine's infrastructure to accommodate the F-16 fighters.
F-16s for Ukraine
In August of last year, Denmark and the Netherlands promised to provide Ukraine with 61 F-16 fighter jets.
For deliveries to begin, Ukrainian pilots and ground crews need to undergo training, while Ukraine needs to prepare its infrastructure.
Recently, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, Yurii Ihnat, revealed that the training of the first group of Ukrainian pilots on F-16s in the United States is expected to conclude by early summer.
According to The New York Times, twelve Ukrainian pilots will be ready for combat flights on F-16 fighters by this summer. However, there is a shortage of aircraft.
