Ukraine needs F-16 fighter jets to counteract Russian missiles, aerial bombs – Ihnat

The relevant statement was made by Spokesperson for the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Yurii Ihnat during a nationwide telethon, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“They [Russians – Ed.] can use missiles remotely, as they have been doing since last spring, and also can use the guided aerial bombs. The enemy’s missile stocks are not unlimited. Hence, these guided aerial bombs can fly tens of kilometers,” Ihnat told.

In his words, Ukraine needs modern fighter jets to protect Ukrainian cities and villages against Russian missiles and aerial bombs.

According to Ihnat, long-range air defense systems, such as SAMP/T and Patriot, can also have effect in this regard. But, it is necessary to have quite a lot of them to protect the entire territory of Ukraine.

Meanwhile, aircraft are mobile and can be used to intercept Russian bombers or at least push them farther away, preventing them from dropping the bombs. For this purpose, Ukraine needs modern multipurpose fighter jets, as the country’s Soviet-era aircraft are unable to complete this task.