(Dan Tri) – US Air Force Commander Frank Kendall has commented on the impact of the F-16 on the conflict in Ukraine if this fighter jet is issued to Kiev.
F-16 fighter jet (Photo: US Air Force).
`The F-16 fighter could provide Ukraine with capabilities it does not currently have. But it would not be a significant game changer for Ukraine’s overall military capabilities.`
Mr. Kendall said the US-made F-16 aircraft will not change the balance of power in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, because powerful air defense systems will prevent them from playing a major role in deciding
The US and its allies are planning to transfer F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine through a `fighter alliance`.
Kiev hopes to receive 50 aircraft of this type from the West to enhance air control in the conflict with Russia.
Mr. Ihnat also added that the air defense systems that the West has donated so far are not enough to protect the entire territory of Ukraine from Russian air strikes.
Ukrainian officials admitted that Kiev’s Soviet-era fighter jets cannot currently stop Russian drones and cruise missiles.
Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Anatoly Antonov warned on May 22 that Western countries’ plans to transfer F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine will raise questions about NATO’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.
Military Watch magazine underestimated the F-16’s ability to turn the tide of war between Russia and Ukraine.