F-16 Fighting Falcon
April 26th marks International Veterinary Day and World Pilots' Day. Also on this day, Saint Basil of Amasya is commemorated.
Russia carried out a massive combined attack on Ukraine, using various types of missiles and UAVs. Ukraine needs more air defense systems to protect the population from such attacks.
On the night of April 24, 2025, Russia launched a combined attack on Ukraine, firing missiles of various types and attack UAVs. Air defense forces shot down 112 aerial targets.
In Poland, a female officer became an F-16 aircraft pilot for the first time, having undergone training in the USA and serving at the 32nd Base. Another female pilot is currently undergoing training at the 31st Base.
According to a BBC source, three missiles were fired at the plane. The friendly fire version is excluded, as Ukrainian air defenses were not operating in the area of the mission.
Major Pavlo Ivanov, who died while piloting an F-16 fighter, was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of Ukraine. The corresponding decree was published on the President's website.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported the death of Captain Pavlo Ivanov on an F-16 while performing a combat mission. The circumstances of the tragedy are being clarified.
26-year-old F-16 pilot Pavlo Ivanov died on April 12, 2025, while performing a combat mission. The circumstances of the tragedy are being established by an interdepartmental commission.
Photos of the Chinese J-36, a sixth-generation aircraft with a "flying wing" design, have appeared online. Experts note the unusual configuration of the engines, which may provide additional thrust.
Ukrainian representatives discussed with the Prime Minister of Belgium the issue of support for the initiative to return children deported by the Russian Federation. Belgium may create a support center for children and families.
The Prime Minister of Belgium announced a package of aid to Ukraine in the amount of 1 billion euros for 2025 and 1 billion annually for defense needs. Also, Belgium will transfer 2 F-16s to Ukraine in 2024 and 2 in 2025.
Belgium will provide Ukraine with two F-16s in 2024 as spare parts, and two more aircraft in 2025. The transfer will take place after Belgium receives the F-35.
The Prime Minister of Belgium and the Minister of Defense will visit Kyiv to express support for Ukrainians.
The Philippines and the United States have launched joint military exercises Cope Thunder, which will last 12 days. The purpose of the exercises is to increase combat readiness and improve joint missions in the face of the threat from China.
General Cavoli announced the preparation of a new batch of F-16s for Ukraine and the expansion of pilot training. Ukrainian forces are already using F-16s to protect the sky.
The President of Ukraine announced personnel reshuffles in the military aviation. The new appointments are intended to strengthen defense capabilities and improve the aviation component of the Defense Forces.
A new vertical for aviation development will appear in the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Umerov has already appointed people who will oversee this direction and has submitted a proposal to the Cabinet of Ministers.
According to the F-16 pilot, there are almost no points that they cannot cover. Every missile hits the target thanks to careful preparation and the work of intelligence and IT units.
The Air Force urges not to publish videos of aircraft flights. Even short recordings can become intelligence for the enemy and reveal the positions of pilots.
The Swedish Ministry of Defense stated that the transfer of ASC890 aircraft to Ukraine is proceeding without delays, but the timing depends on the readiness of the F-16s. Sweden is also helping to train Ukrainian pilots.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed with Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit the strengthening of cultural ties and support for Grain from Ukraine. Ukraine appreciates Norway's defense and humanitarian support.
Zelenskyy and Støre's meeting has begun in Oslo. They will discuss security guarantees, the supply of F-16s, artillery, investments in weapons production and a joint European plan.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the arrival of new F-16 fighters from partners in Ukraine. The President also denied information about the downing of a fighter jet over Sumy region.
Russian z-bloggers spread a fake about the downing of a Ukrainian F-16 over Sumy region. Yuriy Ignat denied this information, noting that the pilots are successfully working on the positions of the occupiers.
The Ministry of Defense spoke about the Raybird UAV (ACS-3), which overcomes EW and air defense, and conducts reconnaissance from a height of 5. 5 km. It can stay in the sky for up to 28 hours, covering up to 2,500 km.
The President of Turkey is working on organizing a meeting with Trump in Washington to strengthen the strategic partnership. Erdoğan called for the lifting of sanctions and the restoration of cooperation on the F-35 and F-16.
Oleksiy Mes, call sign "Moonfish", died on August 26, 2024, repelling a massive air strike by the enemy. He was one of the first F-16 pilots and destroyed three missiles and UAVs.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal has announced his intention to expand support for Ukraine, coordinating with the EU and NATO. The country is ready to increase assistance in various areas, including the F-16 program.
Министр обороны Португалии заявил об отказе от американских F-35 из-за непредсказуемости политики США в НАТО. Существуют опасения относительно ограничений на использование и обслуживание самолетов.
Russia carried out a massive attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, launching 70 missiles and 200 drones. For the first time, F-16s and French Mirage-2000s participated in the defense of Ukrainian airspace. Zelensky emphasized that to achieve peace, it is necessary to force Russia to stop strikes on civilian objects.