Ukrainian F-16s may have received missiles for cheapest interception of Shahed drones - Media
Photo: Ukrainian F-16s (Vitalii Nosach/RBC-Ukraine)
Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets can reportedly shoot down Russian drones using inexpensive and effective APKWS II missiles, according to Defense Express.
For the first time, Ukraine’s Air Force F-16s have gained the ability to use LAU‑131 rocket pods for Hydra‑70 rockets compatible with APKWS II semi‑active laser‑guided kits, the defense outlet reports.
This system enables the effective downing of enemy drones at a relatively low cost — about 30–31 thousand dollars per missile, compared to the million‑dollar price tags of AIM‑9 and AIM‑120 missiles.
The aircraft is equipped with an AN/AAQ‑33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod, which provides precise laser guidance; without it, the rockets remain unguided.
A single F‑16 can carry up to 28 70‑mm rockets, making it a highly effective tool for countering UAVs.
The effectiveness of APKWS II against drones was first demonstrated in ground operations in Ukraine, after which the United States adapted the system for fighter jets such as the F‑15E Strike Eagle.
Now Ukrainian F‑16s have received similar capabilities thanks to support from European partner countries, including the Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, the United Kingdom, and Poland.
Until now, Ukraine’s older F‑16s had limited drone‑interception capabilities.
The use of the Sniper Pod and APKWS II has become a major enhancement to the Air Force, allowing it to conserve expensive missiles while effectively countering Russia’s large‑scale drone attacks.
The new equipment is especially important amid the intensive use of Shaheds and other enemy UAVs that continue to threaten Ukrainian airspace.
F-16s for Ukraine
In 2023, several NATO countries decided to transfer F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine and train Ukrainian pilots to operate them.
According to Politico, Kyiv pressured Europe and the US to accelerate pilot training, dissatisfied with the pace and scale of Western programs.
It was also reported that in May, Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken stated that the country would deliver F-16s to Ukraine earlier than planned, but he recently clarified that new fighter jet deliveries will only be possible next year.
The reason is that Belgium has just received modern F-35 aircraft, which delays the transfer of the F-16s.
