Ukraine can use F-16s more effectively, but stronger weapons are needed – a general
Currently, Ukrainian F-16s are primarily tasked with air defense missions.
F-16 fighters
Ukraine requires modern weaponry for its F-16 fighter jets to effectively counter ground targets and bolster its defense capabilities.
Retired Lieutenant General Ihor Romanenko, former Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said this during an interview on Ukrainian Radio.
Romanenko highlights that the F-16s are currently focused on air defense tasks.
"They can destroy cruise missiles, drones, and "Shaheds". They are also capable of targeting enemy aircraft, but the aviation systems in use are limited to infrared-guided missiles with ranges of 20–40 km or radar-guided missiles with ranges of 110–160 km," he explained.
The general emphasized the importance of equipping F-16s with more advanced missiles, such as JASSM, which would enable effective operations not only in the air but also against ground targets.
"This is extremely important for us. We need not only the aircraft but also more powerful aviation weaponry," Romanenko stressed.
He also addressed U.S. policy regarding the training of Ukrainian pilots.
"Early on, we requested permission to work with veteran F-16 pilots, but no response was given. Meanwhile, our 12 experienced pilots were placed in a queue, while other countries were training thousands annually," he noted.
The general pointed out delays caused by the training of cadets, which can take months or even years.
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