Ivan Sichen, an expert of the Independent Analytical Center for Geopolitical Studies “Borysfen Intel”, for Gazeta.ua
The night strike on Lviv should be another signal for Ukraine’s partners that it is impossible to delay the transfer of F-16 fighters to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Air Force Spokesperson Yurii Ihnat said. Aircrafts will not appear in Ukraine before autumn. However, when they are given along with more Patriot systems, it will help protect the Ukrainian sky much more effectively. This was stated in a comment for Gazeta.ua by military analyst Ivan Sichen.
“Two divisions of Patriot systems have already managed to protect Kyiv. However, the issue with aircrafts is more complicated than with air defense systems. The latter are easier to maintain and easier to learn how to use. Western countries are still afraid to transfer aircrafts to us. They do not want to directly enter into conflict with Russia. Because the air defense system is essentially for defense. While aircrafts can be used both for defense and for strikes. This is the first reason why this question has dragged on for so long. The second is that fighter jets are complicated. Pilots have to be trained — at least for two months. F-16s have their own characteristics and this must be taken into consideration”, said Sichen.
For each aircraft, at least two pilots have to be trained, the analyst said.
“And we need more than one plane. That is, about 60 pilots and even more technicians who also need to be trained. Equipment, spare parts, ammunition need to be brought. The unit where these aircrafts will be deployed needs to be prepared. Unfortunately, this is an objectively complex process that takes time. Therefore, indeed, it is difficult to expect them before autumn. Yes, these aircrafts could close a lot now. Western technologies are 30–40 years ahead of Soviet and Russian ones. But for now, we have to cope with the help of soviet aircrafts and Western air defense systems. When we have F-16s along with more Patriots, protection will be more effective”, Sichen added.
F-16s are needed not only to shoot down missiles, but also to drive the enemy farther away from our sky, the analyst explained.
“The Russians no longer enter our airspace, but launch bombs from afar — 100–150 kilometers — from their territory. And with new aircrafts they will not fly up at all”, added Sichen.
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This night, the Russians struck the territory of Ukraine, firing Kalibr cruise missiles from warships and submarines in the Black Sea. The missiles hit civilian targets in Lviv. A multi-storey building was significantly damaged, the 3rd and 4th floors in two entrances were actually demolished. Ten civilians were killed and 42 others were injured. 14 wounded were hospitalized. Search and rescue operations at the site of the strike continue. |
Author: Anastasiia Prokaieva
Source: Gazeta.ua
The article is available in Russian
