This extraordinary feat was announced by Colonel Yuriy Ignat, head of the public relations service of the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Record-Breaking Sortie
On December 13, amidst a large-scale bombardment, Russian forces launched nearly 200 drones, "Daggers," and over 90 different missiles across Ukraine. The primary objective for the F-16 during such assaults is to intercept and neutralize cruise missiles.
During this intense attack, the F-16 pilot engaged four Russian cruise missiles using all four available air-to-air missiles, successfully destroying them. Observing another incoming target, the pilot made the critical decision to employ the aircraft's cannon—a risky maneuver given the high velocity of the missiles and the potential for detonation.
“Shooting down cruise missiles with a cannon is extremely dangerous due to their high speed and the risk of explosion. However, following the training provided by our instructors in the USA, I managed to hit the target. Remarkably, two missiles flying in close proximity were destroyed simultaneously,” the pilot recounted to Colonel Ignat.
Unique Achievement
The Ukrainian Air Force highlighted that this incident is unprecedented: it marks the first time an F-16 pilot has successfully shot down six cruise missiles in a single sortie, including two interceptions using the aircraft’s cannon.
Colonel Ignat emphasized that despite Ukraine receiving older models of the F-16, Ukrainian pilots consistently exhibit exceptional skill, maximizing the effectiveness of the available equipment.
F-16 Training and Support
Earlier reports indicated that in 2023, Ukraine and its allies formed an aviation coalition aimed at supplying F-16 combat aircraft to Ukraine. By August 2024, it was officially announced that the first F-16 fighters had arrived in Ukraine. Further developments revealed that Belgium plans to transfer an additional 30 fighters to Ukraine by the end of 2028.
Tragically, at the end of August last year, Ukraine lost one of its received aircraft during a massive enemy attack on August 26. Experienced pilot Oleksiy Mes, also known as "Munfish," perished in the resulting plane crash.
Looking Ahead
The successful deployment and operation of F-16 fighters, coupled with the exceptional performance of Ukrainian pilots, bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. Continued training and support from allied nations are expected to further enhance the effectiveness and resilience of Ukraine’s Air Force in the face of ongoing challenges.
About the Air Force Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine:
The Air Force Command is responsible for the operational readiness and strategic deployment of Ukraine’s aerial defense systems, ensuring the protection and sovereignty of the nation through advanced aviation technology and skilled personnel.
