Ukraine shot down a Russian fighter jet using an F-16 for the first time
The Armed Forces of Ukraine shot down a Russian fighter jet using an F-16 fighter jet for the first time. This was stated by the Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Kane.
F-16, illustrative photo Wikimedia Commons
"Recently, we witnessed the first aerial combat in which a Ukrainian F-16 shot down a Russian fighter jet. Over the past few years, thanks to the support of numerous partners, Ukraine has significantly strengthened its layered defense system," Kane said during a hearing of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee.
The general was asked how a cessation of funding for air defense systems might affect Ukraine. Kane responded that Kyiv is doing an "incredible job" in developing its own defense industry.
"This applies to both 'surface-to-air' capabilities and 'air-to-air' capabilities," the general noted.
In early July this year, the Ukrainian Air Force reported the destruction of another Russian multi-role Su-35 fighter jet in the eastern direction. Ukrainian military officials did not specify what weapons were used to shoot down the aircraft.