The December 13 intercept marked the first time in the Fighting Falcon's four-decade combat history that one pilot has eliminated so many cruise missiles in one mission, demonstrating the deadly fusion of Western technology with Ukrainian tactical innovation.
Oslo's Nansen Programme evolves from wartime military support to comprehensive long-term assistance, with the flexibility to adjust the military-civilian aid ratio based on Ukraine's needs.
Ukrainian deserters turned Russian agents used forged volunteer credentials to gather intelligence on air defense positions while searching for potential F-16 bases, revealing Moscow's urgent hunt for Western aircraft.
Ukrainian Air Force Su-27s are conducting precision strikes against Russian targets using American GBU-39 smart bombs, demonstrating successful integration of Western weapons with Soviet-era aircraft.
President Zelenskyy says Ukraine's F-16 jets intercepted 11 Russian cruise missiles. Ivano-Frankivsk authorities say it was the worst ever attack on the region.
Ukrainian aviation expert Kryvolap says the lack of advanced airborne radar and suitable missiles limits the fighters to targeting drones and missiles.
Russian milbloggers report a mysterious aircraft downing, speculating Ukrainian F-16 involvement—potentially the second such incident since 12 October.
The Norwegian government announced a substantial allocation of over $118 million to procure essential equipment and armaments for F-16 fighters destined for Ukraine, with the first deliveries expected before the New Year, as stated by Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram.
Russia also utilized 560 strike drones and 20 missiles this week, maintaining pressure on Ukraine's air defense and high intensity of air strikes along the frontline.
Greece and Ukraine sign a comprehensive Security Cooperation Agreement, bolstering military support and F-16 training for Ukrainian forces while expanding collaboration across multiple sectors.