Zelenskyy: F-16s are intercepting Russian jet drones, but half are in Europe for repairs
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
American F-16 fighter jets are effectively shooting down new Russian jet drones, but a large number of the aircraft have been in Europe for repairs for quite some time, says President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an interview with the Financial Times.
He said that about half of the F-16s have been in Europe for a long time undergoing repairs and maintenance.
The president noted that the return of some aircraft took a very long time, and Ukraine lost precious time when the fighter jets were most needed to defend its airspace.
Zelenskyy said that Kyiv is seeking assistance from Western partners to move most of the maintenance work to Ukrainian territory. He argued that keeping the aircraft closer to the combat zone would allow them to be returned to service more quickly.
Zelenskyy has ordered a review of agreements with partners on the supply of ammunition for the F-16s, as well as missiles for air defense systems.
Ukraine aims to purchase tens of thousands of 20-millimeter rounds for the F-16s. They are used to combat Russian jet-powered drones.
Belgium will transfer three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of this year.
