Discover the intense military escalation as Russia launches devastating attacks on Ukrainian airfields poised to host Western-supplied F-16 jets. This strategic move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations, raising tensions and international concerns. Dive into the details of the airstrikes and their potential implications for the region and beyond, as both sides maneuver amid heightened geopolitical stakes.
Widespread international media reports previously stated that European partners would begin delivering US-made F-16 planes to Ukraine this summer. The hold-up has been mostly due to the enormous time it takes for Ukrainian pilots to be properly trained on advanced aircraft, considering that they are accustomed to Soviet-era jets such as the Soviet MiG-29 and are set to be thrown into aerial battle with new equipment.
Russia appears to be taking preventive action rather than waiting for NATO planes to arrive, with the defense ministry (MoD) stating Thursday that its forces have bombed Ukrainian airbases put up to house Western-supplied airplanes.
According to state media, the MoD employed long-range sea-based missiles to assault Ukraine’s “airfield infrastructure, which was planned to accommodate aircraft from Western countries.” The remark indicated that Kinzhal hypersonic missiles would be used in conjunction with drones.
“The goal of the strike has been achieved. All designated targets have been hit,” the MoD added without specifying the number of locations hit.
In March, President Vladimir Putin stated in an address to pilots, “We will destroy their warplanes just as we destroy their tanks, armored vehicles, and other equipment, including multiple rocket launchers.”
Putin also cautioned against jets operating from NATO airfields in Ukraine. He went on: “Of course, if they are used from airfields of third countries, they become a legitimate target for us, wherever they are located.”
Interestingly, Western media has already openly recognized the following: “But US officials have privately said the jets will not be a game changer when they eventually arrive after months of training, given the strength of the Russian air force and its defense systems.”
So, essentially, airplanes worth multiple tens of millions of dollars each are being prepared to be shot down, in what would most likely be a humiliating defeat for the West.
Even before the jets arrive in Ukraine, Moscow is preparing to target the F-16s and the ground infrastructure that supports them. The Kremlin recently stated that the F-16 is theoretically capable of carrying tactical nuclear bombs and will thus treat them accordingly.
Recently, GreatGameIndia reported that in a dramatic development, Ukraine reportedly struck Russia’s state-of-the-art $600 million S-500 missile defense system using ATACMS missiles. This marks a significant moment in the conflict, showcasing Ukraine’s growing military capabilities and tactical boldness.
