Ukraine Is Using F-16s To Combat New Russian Jet-powered Drones

The Ukrainian Armed Forces shoot down about 55–60% of jet-powered drones.

Ukraine is deploying F-16 fighter jets to destroy new Russian jet-powered drones, which fly faster than conventional drones and are more difficult for air defense systems to intercept. However, the use of expensive fighter jets against relatively inexpensive targets places an additional burden on the Ukrainian Air Force, and a shortage of missiles and ammunition complicates the fight against air attacks, writes The New York Times.

Russian jet-powered drones have become a serious problem for Ukraine’s air defense forces. They can reach speeds of about 600 km/h, leaving the military much less time to detect and destroy the target. The usual methods used to counter slower propeller-driven drones are less effective against these aircraft.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukrainian combat aircraft shoot down about 55–60% of Russian jet-powered drones. “We are very successfully using our air force to intercept jet-powered ‘Shaheds,’” he stated on October 17.

However, deploying F-16s is costly. The fighter jets cost millions of dollars, require regular maintenance, and their stockpiles of air-to-air missiles must be constantly replenished. Therefore, Ukrainian pilots are forced to use the aircraft’s built-in 20-mm cannons as well, conserving the more expensive ammunition.

“Fighter jets are an important tool against Moscow’s latest weapons, but using aircraft to combat drones is not an ideal solution,” notes the NYT.

At the same time, Ukraine is trying to develop cheaper interception capabilities, including interceptor drones. But producing such drones in the necessary quantities is complicated by a shortage of suitable engines.

You can support the website Charter97.org

MULTI-CURRENCY ACCOUNT FOR ASSISTANCE:

Bank's name: Bank Millennium S.A.
Address: ul. Stanislawa Zaryna, 2A, 02-593, Warszawa
IBAN: PL97116022020000000216711123
SWIFT: BIGBPLPW
Name of the account holder: Fundacja “KARTA ‘97”
Purpose/title of payment: Donation for statuary aims

You can contact us by the e-mail [email protected]