Ukraine recently received its first long-awaited F-16 fighter jets. The number of these aircraft is planned to increase to at least 79 by the end of 2028. However, analysts at Defense Express warn that even if this plan is fully implemented, the country may face serious difficulties in using the new aircraft.
First, Ukraine needs a large number of pilots who have been trained and certified to fly the F-16. A minimum of 79 qualified pilots is required, but in reality the number should be much higher to ensure effective work and adequate rest. It is known that a newly established training center in Romania recently graduated the first group of 7 pilots who trained for 8 months. This is the only center in Europe that has been training F-16 pilots since February of this year. However, Romania itself is facing a shortage of aviators, as it receives an additional 32 fighters from Norway.
Technical personnel are another important component for the effective use of fighters. While some problems can be solved by attracting foreign volunteers or through private military companies, issues of maintenance and supply of weapons remain. The United States proposes that European partners purchase weapons for Ukrainian aircraft directly from the United States.
It is also necessary to ensure a sufficient number of spare parts, engines and other components for aircraft repairs. In addition, the throughput capacity of aircraft repair facilities is important, since servicing aircraft in combat conditions requires much more frequent repairs.
Another key issue is how to house and protect the new fighters. To ensure their safety, it is necessary not only to disperse the aircraft across several air bases, but also to place them in protected shelters. It is also necessary to equip the bases with air defense systems, such as Patriot, as well as have additional air defense systems and electronic warfare means to protect against missiles and drones.
While the problem of the F-16 shortage is significant, there are many other complex issues that need to be addressed. Analysts say these issues will be resolved gradually and systematically.
In the context of the transfer of fighters, representatives of the US State Department clarified their position on the possibility of using F-16s for attacks deep into the territory of the Russian Federation, noting that they are constantly assessing the security situation and the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Military expert Oleksandr Musienko emphasized that Western F-16 fighters can significantly strengthen Ukraine's capabilities in the war against Russia.
