Zelenskyy Hails Arrival of F-16 Jets, Marks New Chapter for Ukrainian Air Force

President Zelenskyy celebrates the delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, thanking allies Denmark, Netherlands, and the US for their support. He emphasizes the strategic significance of this addition to Ukraine's defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict with Russia. More jets and pilot training are anticipated.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced the arrival of F-16 fighter jets in the country, emphasizing, "Now it is a reality. F-16s are in Ukraine." He expressed gratitude towards Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United States for their crucial support, CNN reported. Zelenskyy described this development as "a new chapter" for Ukraine's Air Force.

Since the onset of the war, Ukraine has appealed to its allies for these jets to bolster its defenses against Russian missile strikes. Russia retains air superiority over Ukraine, but the F-16s promise a significant upgrade in Kyiv's arsenal. These versatile jets can provide air cover for ground troops, engage enemy aircraft, attack ground targets, and intercept missiles, according to CNN.

"We held hundreds of meetings and negotiations to enhance our aviation and air defense capabilities," Zelenskyy stated at an airbase near Kyiv. "Often, we heard it was impossible. Now, it is a reality. F-16s are in Ukraine. I am proud of our personnel mastering these aircraft and using them for our nation," he added.

He further thanked the first nations to respond to Kyiv's appeal for the aircraft. "I am grateful to Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United States, and all our partners for their support," Zelenskyy said. "This marks a new era for the Ukrainian Air Force as we transition to Western combat aircraft standards," he noted.

Though Zelenskyy did not disclose specific combat missions or the exact number of F-16s currently in Ukraine, he acknowledged, "The number of available jets and trained pilots is still insufficient." Nonetheless, he affirmed, "These jets are now in our skies, and we can use them. Today I can openly state that we are utilizing them."

More F-16 jets are anticipated to arrive in Ukraine, with ongoing training for Ukrainian personnel. "I trust that our partners will continue to expand the training platforms for our pilots and engineers, which is vital for us," Zelenskyy remarked. The US had approved the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in August of last year after extensive lobbying by Kyiv. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)