Ukraine "Deploying F-16 Fighters Next Spring... Will Be a Game Changer"

Defense Minister Reznikov's Outlook

Ukraine is expected to deploy F-16 fighter jets to the front lines next spring to confront Russia.

F-16 fighter jet
Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

According to foreign media including Germany's Bild, Oleksii Reznikov, Ukraine's Minister of Defense, stated on the 28th (local time) during the war-specialized podcast Lontzheimer that "the deployment of F-16 fighter jets to the front lines could be around next spring." He predicted that the deployment of these fighter jets would become a genuine game changer in the battle against Russia.

Ukraine has begun training and educating F-16 fighter pilots, technicians, and engineers. Minister Reznikov explained, "It will take at least six months to establish the necessary infrastructure," adding, "That is why the deployment timing is expected to be next spring." He also emphasized, "The issue is to end Russia's air superiority," and stated, "The F-16 fighter jets will be part of the air defense system to protect Ukrainian cities."

Previously, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway promised to supply F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Other countries have agreed to assist with the training and education of pilots and technicians.