The wait for Ukraine is finally over, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy displayed the newly arrived F-16 fighter jets on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the country's defence capabilities.
The pilots have already started flying F-16s, said Zelenskyy, adding that it will boost the country's war effort against Russia.
Zelenskyy met military pilots at an airbase flanked by two of the jets and two flying overhead in close formation.
"F-16s are in Ukraine. We did it. I am proud of our guys who are mastering these jets and have already started using them for our country," said Zelenskyy while revealing the fighter jets.
Since Russia's invasion, Ukraine has been long waiting for the F-16 fighter jets to enhance its air defences. However, it is unclear how many are currently available and how it will help them on the battleground.
The F-16s had been on Ukraine’s wishlist for a long time. They are equipped with a 20mm cannon and can carry bombs, rockets and missiles.
President Zelenskyy confirmed the arrival of F-16 in Ukraine. The aircraft have already begun performing combat missions.
— UNITED24 Media (@United24media) August 4, 2024
During the ceremony, where the announcement was made, Zelenskyy awarded Ukrainian defenders and paid tribute to the fallen heroes. pic.twitter.com/x62K0oih9l
"Since the beginning of this war, we have been talking with our partners about the need to protect our Ukrainian skies from Russian missiles and Russian aircraft," said Zelenskyy.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned that Moscow could consider launching strikes at facilities in NATO countries if they host the warplanes used in Ukraine.
The US-made F-16 is an iconic fighter jet that's been the front-line combat plane of choice for the NATO alliance and numerous air forces around the world for 50 years.
Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway have committed to providing Ukraine with more than 60 of them over the coming months.
F-16s were agreed to be deployed to Ukraine by US President Joe Biden in August 2023, though the US won't be providing any of its own planes.
On the war front, Russia is making small but steady battlefield gains in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region and its steady forward movement is adding up as Ukraine gradually yields ground.
