Ukraine’s F-16 fighter jets currently lack the necessary weaponry to effectively counter Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers, aviation expert Kostyantyn Kryvolap said during a broadcast on KYIV24, according to TSN.
Kryvolap explained that the Ukrainian Western-supplied fighters currently lack suitable weapons systems capable of deterring Russian Su-34 jets conducting bombing operations along the frontlines. He identified the absence of appropriate radar systems as a key issue, claiming that Sweden’s offer to provide two Saab 340 airborne early warning aircraft was not realized.
Sweden pledged to supply two ASC 890 (or Saab 340 AEW&C) airborne early warning and control aircraft in May. However, there were no further updates on the transfer, combat use, or pilot training.
A month ago, Kryvolap stated that the delay in delivering ASC 890s was not due to Sweden but to a lack of approval from the United States.
Now, Kryvolap compares Ukraine’s use of F-16s to its past inability to strike Russian reserves during the Kharkiv offensive from Belgorod Oblast this May, when US restrictions barred Ukraine from using American-supplied rockets and missiles on Russian territory.
“We currently face a situation similar to when we asked for permission to strike [Russia’s] Belgorod Oblast during their offensive against us. They advanced 7-12 kilometers into our territory, and we couldn’t strike back [targeting reserves in Russia’s territory]. We had the means, the personnel, and a clear goal. But we lacked the capability and permission,” Kryvolap said.
The expert highlighted that the F-16s are currently primarily engaged in countering drones and missiles, stating,
“What we feared most. That our F-16s would be chasing Shahed drones and missiles. And that’s exactly what is happening.”
Despite the expert’s claims, Russian sources earlier stated that Ukrainian F-16s shot down at least two Russian Su-34 aircraft.
Related:
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- Zelenskyy: F-16 fighters recently destroyed seven cruise missiles used by Russia to attack Ukraine
- UK intel: Russia fails to secure air superiority 1,000 days into Ukraine war
- Ukrainian F-16s intercept “about 10” targets in Russia’s morning missile attack, civilian death toll reaches 5
- Second Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber downed by Ukrainian F-16, sources claim
- Negotiations for Swedish Gripen jets continue, Ukraine confirms
- Sweden’s ASC 890 aircraft to boost Ukraine’s defense against Russian targets
