Due to the intensive use of F-16s, Ukraine is rapidly depleting the aircraft's service life

Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets are one of the most effective means of combating Russian jet-powered drones. At the same time, due to the extremely high rate of operation, the aircraft’s service life is rapidly being depleted.

This was stated by Colonel Yuriy Cherevashchenko, Deputy Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force for Air Defense, during a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada’s Temporary Investigative Commission.

 According to him, keeping the F-16s in a constant state of readiness is a difficult task due to the limited service life of the aircraft. That is why assistance from partners in the maintenance and support of these aircraft is critically important for Ukraine.

Cherevashchenko also noted that the most effective way to destroy Russian jet drones is at their bases and launch sites. He said that several such targets have already been struck, but they are well-fortified and have concrete protective structures.

Source: Ukrinform.

Spain, Belgium, and Poland have already begun supplying Ukraine with 20-mm ammunition. This ammunition is needed, in particular, for the F-16 fighter jets that Ukraine is using against Russian jet drones.

Ukraine will receive three F-16 fighter jets from Belgium by the end of 2026. The transfer of the aircraft is planned to be carried out under an expedited procedure.