Ukrainian F-16 Shoots Down Russian Su-35 In Historic First
Summary
A Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet shot down a Russian Su-35 in a rare air battle, marking the first time a Ukrainian F-16 has downed a Russian plane. Ukraine has operated F-16s since mid-2024, using them mainly to defend against Russian missiles and drones.Key Facts
- A Ukrainian F-16 successfully shot down a Russian Su-35 fighter plane.
- This event is the first confirmed air-to-air kill by a Ukrainian F-16.
- Both the F-16 and Su-35 are fourth-generation fighter jets.
- Ukraine started flying F-16s in summer 2024 after receiving planes from four NATO countries.
- Ukraine uses F-16s mostly to defend cities from Russian missiles and drones.
- Ukraine has about 39 F-16s in service but has lost at least three to combat damage.
- Ukraine signed a deal in June 2025 to buy 16 Swedish Gripen jets, expected to arrive in about three years.
- Russia has increased its missile and drone attacks on Ukraine in recent months.
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