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Ukraine has reportedly received its first F-16 fighter jets, which the country has argued is crucial for countering Russian missile strikes.

What’s the deal: US officials, speaking anonymously to various outlets, have confirmed that F-16 fighter jets arrived in Ukraine within the last 48 hours. While the exact number of jets in this initial delivery is still unknown, this marks a significant milestone for Ukraine in bolstering its air defenses with advanced Western weaponry. It remains unclear which countries provided the F-16s, although earlier reports suggested that the Danish and Dutch governments were close to supplying them to Ukraine.

How long has Ukraine been asking for F-16s?: Since the start of the war, Ukraine has been urgently seeking F-16 fighter jets. Officials argue these jets are desperately needed to counter missile strikes from Russia and effectively suppress the Russian Air Force.

Training: Ukrainian pilots have undergone extensive training, primarily facilitated by the United States, to operate F-16 fighter jets. This rigorous process took about a year, with the first group of pilots having recently graduated. Their training included:

• Mastering the advanced systems and capabilities of the F-16s.
• Learning English.
• Ensuring they are fully prepared to use these jets effectively in combat.

Russia’s vow: Russia has pledged to destroy any F-16 fighter jets sent to Ukraine, seeing their delivery as a major escalation by NATO. In response, Ukraine has taken precautionary steps by storing some of the F-16s outside its borders to protect them from potential Russian attacks.