US-Iran war: Tehran claims F-15, A-10, F-16 among US jets hit. Know all about these aircraft

Pakistan has struck a major defence deal with the US under which they will get advanced technology and support for F-16 fighter jets valued at $686 million. The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), in a letter sent to Congress on Monday (December 8, 2025), approved the deal.&nbsp;Link–16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support are part of the deal that covers USD 37 million in Major Defense Equipment (MDE) and USD 649 million in additional hardware and software.&nbsp;The DSCA letter states it “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with U.S. and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.”The letter also speaks about "refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet".&nbsp;“Maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet,” the letter notes.&nbsp;These updates will provide more “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the U.S. Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training, and refurbishment will extend the aircraft life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns,” the letter adds.&nbsp;The letter claims that the deal will "not alter the basic military balance in the region", and concludes by saying, "the sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States”.&nbsp;

The letter claims that the deal will not alter the basic military balance in the region, and concludes by saying, the sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.

Pakistan has struck a major defence deal with the US under which they will get advanced technology and support for F-16 fighter jets valued at $686 million. The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), in a letter sent to Congress on Monday (December 8, 2025), approved the deal. Link–16 systems, cryptographic equipment, avionics updates, training, and comprehensive logistical support are part of the deal that covers USD 37 million in Major Defense Equipment (MDE) and USD 649 million in additional hardware and software. The DSCA letter states it “will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by allowing Pakistan to retain interoperability with U.S. and partner forces in ongoing counterterrorism efforts and in preparation for future contingency operations.” The letter also speaks about "refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet". “Maintain Pakistan’s capability to meet current and future threats by updating and refurbishing its Block–52 and Mid Life Upgrade F–16 fleet,” the letter notes. These updates will provide more “seamless integration and interoperability between the Pakistan Air Force and the U.S. Air Force in combat operations, exercises, and training, and refurbishment will extend the aircraft life through 2040 while addressing critical flight safety concerns,” the letter adds. The letter claims that the deal will "not alter the basic military balance in the region", and concludes by saying, "the sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States”.

The letter claims that the deal will "not alter the basic military balance in the region", and concludes by saying, "the sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States”.

US approves $686 million tech upgrade for F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan. Know all about the deal

Fighter jets are known for their enormous fuel consumption, burning thousands of litres per hour. This is because their powerful engines need vast fuel to reach supersonic speeds but there are some fighter jet who drink huge amounts of fuel.

6 fighter jets that drink huge amounts of fuel to fly

The F-16 changed air combat forever with its speed, agility, and fly-by-wire tech. Still evolving after 40+ years, it’s the most versatile and widely used fighter jet in the world. But what keeps it so relevant today? 

'40+ years in service': How F-16 fighter jet changed modern warfare forever

Days after the US defence forces struck a boat linked to drug trafficking, two Venezuelan military aircraft flew near a US Navy vessel in international waters on Thursday (Sept 4), according to the US Department of Defense. The US has condemned the move and &nbsp;described the action as a "show of force" by Venezuela.&nbsp;The USS Jason Dunham that was threatened by two armed F-16 fighter jets is an Aegis guided-missile destroyer. It was recently dispatched to the region to target criminal organizations and narco-terrorism.&nbsp;The were no reports of any retaliation from the US warship.&nbsp;"The cartel running Venezuela is strongly advised not to pursue any further effort to obstruct, deter or interfere with counter-narcotics and counter-terror operations carried out by the US military," the Pentagon said in a post on X after the incident.&nbsp;Trump-Maduro rift and alleged drug cartel nexus&nbsp;The warship was sent to the waters off Venezuela as part of Trump's initiative to crack down on drug cartels. The move has led to rising tension between Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-india-ties-at-worst-in-decades-ex-us-nsa-john-bolton-says-trump-ruined-ties-with-modi-pushed-new-delhi-closer-to-china-russia-1757044750382">US-India ties at 'worst in decades': Ex US NSA John Bolton says Trump ruined ties with Modi, pushed New Delhi closer to China, Russia</a>&nbsp;The Trump administration has claimed a nexus between Maduro and drug cartels to traffic narcotics to the United States. In fact the US has doubled the reward for Maduro's arrest to $50 million.&nbsp;The Venezuelan government has, however, denied any links with the drug cartels.Earlier this week, when the US sent its warships to the waters off Venezuela, Maduro called the move &nbsp;a "criminal and bloody threat" &nbsp;

The warship was sent to the waters off Venezuela as part of Trumps initiative to crack down on drug cartels.

Days after the US defence forces struck a boat linked to drug trafficking, two Venezuelan military aircraft flew near a US Navy vessel in international waters on Thursday (Sept 4), according to the US Department of Defense. The US has condemned the move and described the action as a "show of force" by Venezuela. The USS Jason Dunham that was threatened by two armed F-16 fighter jets is an Aegis guided-missile destroyer. It was recently dispatched to the region to target criminal organizations and narco-terrorism. The were no reports of any retaliation from the US warship. "The cartel running Venezuela is strongly advised not to pursue any further effort to obstruct, deter or interfere with counter-narcotics and counter-terror operations carried out by the US military," the Pentagon said in a post on X after the incident. Trump-Maduro rift and alleged drug cartel nexus The warship was sent to the waters off Venezuela as part of Trump's initiative to crack down on drug cartels. The move has led to rising tension between Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Also Read: US-India ties at 'worst in decades': Ex US NSA John Bolton says Trump ruined ties with Modi, pushed New Delhi closer to China, Russia The Trump administration has claimed a nexus between Maduro and drug cartels to traffic narcotics to the United States. In fact the US has doubled the reward for Maduro's arrest to $50 million. The Venezuelan government has, however, denied any links with the drug cartels. Earlier this week, when the US sent its warships to the waters off Venezuela, Maduro called the move a "criminal and bloody threat"

The warship was sent to the waters off Venezuela as part of Trump's initiative to crack down on drug cartels.

'Show of force': Venezuela threatens US Navy vessel, scrambles armed F-16 fighter jets

A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed during a rehearsal for the Radom Airshow in central Poland, resulting in the pilot’s death. The defence minister confirmed that a highly experienced air display pilot died in the accident. The Radom Airshow scheduled for the weekend has been cancelled following the tragedy. The minister expressed condolences to the pilot’s family and praised his dedication and bravery. The Polish military confirmed no injuries occurred on the ground. The pilot was part of the Tiger Demo Team, which was set to perform at the event about 100 kilometers south of Warsaw.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 During the rehearsal of the Radom Airshow in Poland, an F-16 fighter jet crashed, killing the pilot. The tragic incident’s video is now going viral on social media. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RadomAirshow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RadomAirshow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Poland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Poland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F16?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F16</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BreakingNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BreakingNews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Poland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Poland</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F16FighterJet?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F16FighterJet</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F16?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F16</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F16Crash?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F16Crash</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fighterjetcrashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fighterjetcrashes</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViralVideo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViralVideo</a> <a href="https://t.co/HFtFSa4vPA">https://t.co/HFtFSa4vPA</a> <a href="https://t.co/WF3H6Mm3ON">pic.twitter.com/WF3H6Mm3ON</a>&mdash; Breaking News (@ag_observer) <a href="https://twitter.com/ag_observer/status/1961262058504421791?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/radom-airshow-tragedy-polish-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-during-rehearsal-1756421207654">Radom airshow tragedy: Polish F-16 fighter jet crashes during rehearsal</a><h2>Who was the pilot?</h2>A statement from the General Command of the Polish Armed Forces identified the pilot as flying ace Major Maciej ‘Slab’ Krakowian, according to a report by TVP world. He was the leader of the display team in the show. Reports state that in August, he was awarded the ‘As the Crow Flies’ Trophy by aviation enthusiasts for the “best overall flying demonstration” at the 2025 Royal International Air Tattoo, the world’s largest military airshow.In a statement on Thursday, the General Command of the Armed Forces said that no bystanders were injured. Local reports state that the pilot, part of an elite group of NATO air units known as “Tiger Demo”, was not seen ejecting from the plane before the crash.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇮🇹🇵🇱 The Chief of Italian Defence, General <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Portolano?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Portolano</a>, expresses profound sorrow for the tragic loss of the Polish pilot who lost his life in the F-16 crash today. On behalf of the Italian Armed Forces, General Portolano extends his deepest condolences to General <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kukula?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kukula</a>, to the… <a href="https://t.co/Hw0jf5xjLV">pic.twitter.com/Hw0jf5xjLV</a>&mdash; Forze Armate StatoMaggioreDifesa (@SM_Difesa) <a href="https://twitter.com/SM_Difesa/status/1961156114436809183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-many-f-16-fighter-jets-does-poland-operate-and-where-are-they-based-1756423134414">How many F-16 fighter jets does Poland operate and where are they based?</a><h3>Poland and F-16 fighter jets</h3>Poland made its initial purchase of U.S.-made F-16 fighter jets in 2003 as part of a strategic effort to modernize its military and align more closely with NATO standards. The F-16, a multirole combat aircraft, is a vital component of NATO’s defense strategy due to its versatility, advanced avionics, and proven combat performance. Over the years, Poland has continued to invest in upgrading its F-16 fleet with the latest technology, including improved radar systems, precision-guided munitions, and enhanced communication capabilities.&nbsp;In the wake of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2023, Poland has significantly increased its defense budget and accelerated military modernization. This includes not only enhancements to its F-16 program but also acquisitions of additional Western military hardware, such as Abrams tanks from the U.S. and FA-50 jets from South Korea. These efforts are part of Poland’s broader strategy to strengthen national defense, bolster NATO’s eastern flank, and deter potential threats in the region.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-india-take-down-pakistan-s-f-16-fighter-jet-during-operation-sindoor-here-s-what-us-said-1755136064415">Did India take down Pakistan's F-16 fighter jet during Op Sindoor? Here's what US said</a>

A Polish Air Force F-16 crashed during Radom Airshow rehearsal, killing Major Maciej ‘Slab’ Krakowian, leader of the Tiger Demo Team. The event was cancelled, no ground injuries were reported, and Krakowian was praised for his skill and bravery. He did not eject before the crash.

A Polish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed during a rehearsal for the Radom Airshow in central Poland, resulting in the pilot’s death. The defence minister confirmed that a highly experienced air display pilot died in the accident. The Radom Airshow scheduled for the weekend has been cancelled following the tragedy. The minister expressed condolences to the pilot’s family and praised his dedication and bravery. The Polish military confirmed no injuries occurred on the ground. The pilot was part of the Tiger Demo Team, which was set to perform at the event about 100 kilometers south of Warsaw.

A Polish Air Force F-16 crashed during Radom Airshow rehearsal, killing Major Maciej ‘Slab’ Krakowian, leader of the Tiger Demo Team. The event was cancelled, no ground injuries were reported, and Krakowian was praised for his skill and bravery. He did not eject before the crash.

Caught on Cam: F-16 fighter jet crashes during air show preparation in Poland, pilot dies - Who was he

A Polish F-16 fighter jet crashed during a rehearsal for the Radom Airshow in Poland, killing the pilot. Here’s how many F-16 fighter jets Poland operates, their bases, and how the fleet boosts the country’s military readiness. Read more below.

How many F-16 fighter jets does Poland operate and where are they based?

Even using the higher-end estimate of 70 million dollars per jet, you would still get around 30 F-16s for the same investment.

How many F-16s could you buy for the price of one B-2 bomber?

The F-22 Raptor costs nearly three times more to fly than the F-16. Discover the flight hour costs, key reasons, cutting-edge features, and why experts call the F-22 a costly game-changer. 

'Flying costs per hour': Why the F-22 Raptor is 3x more expensive than the F-16

The five most produced fighter jets MiG-15, MiG-21, F-16, F-4 and F-86 are used by air forces worldwide beacause of affordibility, powerful performance and leading export numbers.

5 most produced fighter jets: Here’s what makes them popular

The F-16 is the world’s most exported fighter jet due to its affordable cost, low maintenance, easy upgrades, and high performance. Used by over 25 countries, it stays popular for defence and budget needs. Discover more about its global success below.

'Affordable to operate': Why F-16 is world's most exported fighter jet?

Smaller nations are upgrading air forces with affordable fighter jets like the F-16 Block 70 and Gripen E. With low costs, local deals, and rising threats, choices reflect smart defence strategies. 

Why are smaller nations investing more in fighter jets?

Curious to know who would win in a race between a Bugatti Chiron and an F-16 jet? A real race took place in the Nevada desert to test speed, power, and technology. Read on for more details.

A Bugatti owner tried racing an F-16 fighter jet and then this happened...

These bombs, also known as free-fall nuclear bombs, are tactical unguided weapons dropped from aircraft. 

What is Gravity Nuclear bomb and which fighter jet can fly it?

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25 “Foxbat” was designed in the 1960s by the Soviet Union to intercept American bombers and spy planes. Built for raw speed and altitude, the MiG-25 could reach a jaw-dropping altitude of over 123,000 feet (37+ km)—almost at the Kármán line.

This fighter jet could fly at the edge of space and it's not American...

The J-35 is a fifth-generation twin-engine stealth fighter aircraft developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, one of China's leading military aviation manufacturers. 

The truth about China’s J-35: Future of fighter jet or flawed prototype?

A Ukrainian fighter pilot was killed and an F-16 fighter jet destroyed during a fierce night-time battle with Russian forces, the Ukrainian military said on Sunday. The aircraft was part of Ukraine’s efforts to repel what authorities are calling the largest aerial attack since the full-scale war began. According to reports, this marks the fourth confirmed loss of a US-made F-16 aircraft in the ongoing war.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-2-billion-gone-up-in-smoke-the-most-expensive-plane-crash-in-history-was-caused-by-humidity-1751135142161">'$2 billion gone up in smoke': The most EXPENSIVE plane crash in history was caused by humidity</a><h2>Russia launches over 500 drones and missiles in one night</h2>Russia launched a wave of drones and missiles targeting Ukraine’s western, southern, and central regions. The attack damaged infrastructure, homes and left at least six people injured, local officials confirmed.Ukraine’s air force reported that the assault involved 477 drones and decoys, along with 60 missiles. Of these, 249 were intercepted, and the rest were believed to have been taken out through electronic jamming systems. A Ukrainian official told the Associated Press that this was the largest aerial attack since the invasion began.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/b-2-bomber-has-only-crashed-once-and-it-was-not-because-of-enemy-fire-what-downed-the-invincible-b-2-spirit-1751133891162">B-2 bomber has only CRASHED once and it was not because of enemy fire: What downed the 'invincible' B-2 Spirit?</a><h2>Why does the F-16 matter so much to Ukraine?</h2>The F-16 Fighting Falcon, developed by General Dynamics and now manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is one of the most advanced multi-role fighter aircraft in the world. It is widely used by many NATO countries and has a strong reputation for performance, agility, and precision. Ukraine’s F-16s are mainly used for air patrols and defending against Russian cruise missiles, drones, and aircraft.<h2>What makes the F-16 such a critical asset?</h2>• Versatile in combat: It can perform a wide range of missions — from air-to-air combat to bombing ground targets.• Highly manoeuvrable: The F-16’s design and flight control system allow it to handle high-speed, high-G turns with ease.• Advanced technology: It carries modern radar, navigation, and electronic warfare tools that help detect and respond to threats quickly.• Fly-by-wire system: This replaces traditional mechanical controls with electronic signals, improving responsiveness.• Efficient single engine: The aircraft’s lightweight, single-engine design gives it good range and fuel efficiency.<h2>Ukraine’s shrinking F-16 fleet</h2>Ukraine is believed to have only 16 operational F-16s at the moment. Losing even one is a major blow, especially as Russian attacks intensify. Kyiv was promised 85 F-16s from Western allies, 24 from the Netherlands, 19 from Denmark, 12 from Norway (plus 10 for spare parts), and 30 from Belgium. The first jets arrived in August 2024, and the most recent batch came in March 2025, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine’s air force reported that the assault involved 477 drones and decoys, along with 60 missiles. Of these, 249 were intercepted, and the rest were believed to have been taken out through electronic jamming systems.

A Ukrainian fighter pilot was killed and an F-16 fighter jet destroyed during a fierce night-time battle with Russian forces, the Ukrainian military said on Sunday. The aircraft was part of Ukraine’s efforts to repel what authorities are calling the largest aerial attack since the full-scale war began. According to reports, this marks the fourth confirmed loss of a US-made F-16 aircraft in the ongoing war. Also read: '$2 billion gone up in smoke': The most EXPENSIVE plane crash in history was caused by humidity Russia launches over 500 drones and missiles in one night Russia launched a wave of drones and missiles targeting Ukraine’s western, southern, and central regions. The attack damaged infrastructure, homes and left at least six people injured, local officials confirmed. Ukraine’s air force reported that the assault involved 477 drones and decoys, along with 60 missiles. Of these, 249 were intercepted, and the rest were believed to have been taken out through electronic jamming systems. A Ukrainian official told the Associated Press that this was the largest aerial attack since the invasion began. Also read: B-2 bomber has only CRASHED once and it was not because of enemy fire: What downed the 'invincible' B-2 Spirit? Why does the F-16 matter so much to Ukraine? The F-16 Fighting Falcon, developed by General Dynamics and now manufactured by Lockheed Martin, is one of the most advanced multi-role fighter aircraft in the world. It is widely used by many NATO countries and has a strong reputation for performance, agility, and precision. Ukraine’s F-16s are mainly used for air patrols and defending against Russian cruise missiles, drones, and aircraft. What makes the F-16 such a critical asset? • Versatile in combat: It can perform a wide range of missions — from air-to-air combat to bombing ground targets. • Highly manoeuvrable: The F-16’s design and flight control system allow it to handle high-speed, high-G turns with ease. • Advanced technology: It carries modern radar, navigation, and electronic warfare tools that help detect and respond to threats quickly. • Fly-by-wire system: This replaces traditional mechanical controls with electronic signals, improving responsiveness. • Efficient single engine: The aircraft’s lightweight, single-engine design gives it good range and fuel efficiency. Ukraine’s shrinking F-16 fleet Ukraine is believed to have only 16 operational F-16s at the moment. Losing even one is a major blow, especially as Russian attacks intensify. Kyiv was promised 85 F-16s from Western allies, 24 from the Netherlands, 19 from Denmark, 12 from Norway (plus 10 for spare parts), and 30 from Belgium. The first jets arrived in August 2024, and the most recent batch came in March 2025, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine’s air force reported that the assault involved 477 drones and decoys, along with 60 missiles. Of these, 249 were intercepted, and the rest were believed to have been taken out through electronic jamming systems.

Pilot killed, F-16 downed: Russia shoots down Ukrainian F-16 in BIGGEST air attack - How many F-16s Kyiv has and why are they crucial?

As Ukrainian forces execute daring drone strikes deep into Russian territory, the much-touted F-16 fighter jets remain absent from combat. Watch this report for more details!

Decoding the silence: Ukraine's curious F-16 media blackout

Ukraine's F-16s are here — but why aren’t they flying?

A Ukrainian MP has claimed that the US-supplied F-16 fighter jet that crashed along with its pilot on Monday (Aug 26) may have been downed by friendly fire. The jet was involved in repelling a major Russian aerial attack when it crashed, according to the Ukrainian Army.&nbsp;

Lawmaker Mariana Bezuglaya said&nbsp;Patriot anti-aircraft missiles used by the Ukrainian forces to thwart Russian threats may have destroyed the jet.&nbsp;

“According to my information, the F-16 piloted by Aleksey ‘Moonfish’ Mes was hit by a Patriot anti-aircraft missile system due to discoordination between units,” wrote&nbsp;Bezuglaya on Telegram.&nbsp;

Bezuglaya called out the culture of lies that had infested the Ukrainian military where such incidents were being swept under the rug.&nbsp;

“War is war, such episodes are possible. But a culture of lies&nbsp;leads to a management system for military decisions that does not improve based on truthful, consistently collected analytics, but worsens and even collapses, as seen in the Pokrovsk direction,” she added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-reports-ukraines-top-pilot-killed-in-f-16-crash-754465">Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Reports: Ukraine's top pilot killed in F-16 crash</a>

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<h2>What did Kyiv say?</h2>

In the aftermath of the incident, the Ukrainian Army said&nbsp;communication with the F-16 was lost as the planes approached their next target.

“As it turned out later, the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot,” the military said.

Ukraine’s Western air command unit later revealed the name of the pilot, identified as&nbsp;Oleksiy Mes.&nbsp;

“On 26 August, while repelling a Russian massive combined missile and air strike, Oleksiy destroyed three cruise missiles and one attack drone."

“Oleksiy saved Ukrainians from deadly Russian missiles. Unfortunately, at the cost of his own life,” it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-newly-acquired-american-made-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-reason-unknown-754424">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine's newly acquired American made F-16 fighter jet crashes; one pilot dead</a>

<h2>US statement on F-16 crash</h2>

Quizzed about the incident and if there was friendly fire involved, Washington refused to comment saying it was not part of the investigation.&nbsp;

"I just can't confirm it. I don't have that level of fidelity right now. So in terms of if this pilot was killed and it was brought down by friendly fire - that I just can't speak to, that'd really be something for the Ukrainians to speak to," Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters.&nbsp;

"The United States has not been asked to participate in any type of investigation to look into this incident," she added.

The incident transpired just weeks after Kyiv began taking delivery of the planes. As many as six F-16 jets are currently in Ukraine's command and as per President Volodymyr Zelensky, they had shown good results in repelling the Russian attacks.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos&nbsp;and&nbsp;videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Ukrainian MP has claimed that the US-supplied F-16 fighter jet that crashed along with its pilot on Monday (Aug 26) may have been downed by friendly fire. The jet was involved in repelling a major Russian aerial attack when it crashed, according to the Ukrainian Army.

A Ukrainian MP has claimed that the US-supplied F-16 fighter jet that crashed along with its pilot on Monday (Aug 26) may have been downed by friendly fire. The jet was involved in repelling a major Russian aerial attack when it crashed, according to the Ukrainian Army. Lawmaker Mariana Bezuglaya said Patriot anti-aircraft missiles used by the Ukrainian forces to thwart Russian threats may have destroyed the jet. “According to my information, the F-16 piloted by Aleksey ‘Moonfish’ Mes was hit by a Patriot anti-aircraft missile system due to discoordination between units,” wrote Bezuglaya on Telegram. Bezuglaya called out the culture of lies that had infested the Ukrainian military where such incidents were being swept under the rug. “War is war, such episodes are possible. But a culture of lies leads to a management system for military decisions that does not improve based on truthful, consistently collected analytics, but worsens and even collapses, as seen in the Pokrovsk direction,” she added. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war | Reports: Ukraine's top pilot killed in F-16 crash × What did Kyiv say? In the aftermath of the incident, the Ukrainian Army said communication with the F-16 was lost as the planes approached their next target. “As it turned out later, the aircraft crashed, killing the pilot,” the military said. Ukraine’s Western air command unit later revealed the name of the pilot, identified as Oleksiy Mes. “On 26 August, while repelling a Russian massive combined missile and air strike, Oleksiy destroyed three cruise missiles and one attack drone." “Oleksiy saved Ukrainians from deadly Russian missiles. Unfortunately, at the cost of his own life,” it added. Also read | Ukraine's newly acquired American made F-16 fighter jet crashes; one pilot dead US statement on F-16 crash Quizzed about the incident and if there was friendly fire involved, Washington refused to comment saying it was not part of the investigation. "I just can't confirm it. I don't have that level of fidelity right now. So in terms of if this pilot was killed and it was brought down by friendly fire - that I just can't speak to, that'd really be something for the Ukrainians to speak to," Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters. "The United States has not been asked to participate in any type of investigation to look into this incident," she added. The incident transpired just weeks after Kyiv began taking delivery of the planes. As many as six F-16 jets are currently in Ukraine's command and as per President Volodymyr Zelensky, they had shown good results in repelling the Russian attacks. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Was Ukraine's F-16 jet downed by friendly fire? Kyiv lawmaker makes SHOCKING claim

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the first batch of F-16 jets has arrived in Ukraine and is already being utilized by Ukrainian pilots. Watch in for more details!

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine receives first batch of US-made F-16 fighter jets

Russia-Ukraine War: Ukraine finally deploys first batch of F-16 fighter jets

The F-16 fighter jets have finally arrived in Kyiv in a big boost to Ukraine's faltering defences against an increasingly belligerent Russia. It was in May 2023 when the Joe Biden administration of the US officially dropped its opposition to sending advanced fighter jets to the war-torn nation. After a wait of more than a year, the big day has finally arrived, Bloomberg reported.

As per the report, the deadline for the transfer of the jets was the end of July, which stands fulfilled now. However, as per sources quoted by Bloomberg, "the number of jets is small".

<h2>Ukraine yet to confirm these reports</h2>

As per the agreed deal, Kyiv is set to receive at least 79 F-16s from the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium, and Norway in the coming years.

The allied "fighter jet coalition" has also been training Ukrainian pilots for months now to enable them to operate the jet in war-like conditions.

Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia claims to down Ukrainian SU-25 jet

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However, it was not clear whether Ukrainian pilots could immediately use the jets or not.

<h2>'Won't be a game changer'</h2>

The arrival of the F-16 jets may shore up Ukraine's defences, but they are not expected to prove to be a game-changer, Bloomberg reported last year.

According to experts quoted by the news agency, the jets dispatched to Kyiv would have 'inferior radar and shorter range missiles that the most modern Russian jets and air defenses.'

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjh0Ny_1NGHAxXPnq8BHSlHIREQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-to-visit-ukraine-in-august-744593" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-to-visit-ukraine-in-august-744593&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjh0Ny_1NGHAxXPnq8BHSlHIREQxfQBKAB6BAgMEAE">Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August</a>

“It’ll be like they pushed the easy button or switched from driving a Lada to a Honda Accord,” Brynn Tannehill, a former aviator who designed simulators for F-16s, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg, referring to the notoriously clunky Soviet-era Lada car.

So, Ukraine shouldn't expect the F-16 jets to enable them to have air superiority.

Most likely, the jets will be restricted to defence or used in very high-risk operations.

(With inputs from agencies)

The F-16 fighter jets have finally arrived in Kyiv in a big boost to Ukraine's faltering defences against an increasingly belligerent Russia. It was in May 2023 when the Joe Biden administration of the US officially dropped its opposition to sending advanced fighter jets to the war-torn nation.

The F-16 fighter jets have finally arrived in Kyiv in a big boost to Ukraine's faltering defences against an increasingly belligerent Russia. It was in May 2023 when the Joe Biden administration of the US officially dropped its opposition to sending advanced fighter jets to the war-torn nation. After a wait of more than a year, the big day has finally arrived, Bloomberg reported. As per the report, the deadline for the transfer of the jets was the end of July, which stands fulfilled now. However, as per sources quoted by Bloomberg, "the number of jets is small". Ukraine yet to confirm these reports As per the agreed deal, Kyiv is set to receive at least 79 F-16s from the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium, and Norway in the coming years. The allied "fighter jet coalition" has also been training Ukrainian pilots for months now to enable them to operate the jet in war-like conditions. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war: Russia claims to down Ukrainian SU-25 jet × However, it was not clear whether Ukrainian pilots could immediately use the jets or not. 'Won't be a game changer' The arrival of the F-16 jets may shore up Ukraine's defences, but they are not expected to prove to be a game-changer, Bloomberg reported last year. According to experts quoted by the news agency, the jets dispatched to Kyiv would have 'inferior radar and shorter range missiles that the most modern Russian jets and air defenses.' Also read: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Ukraine in August “It’ll be like they pushed the easy button or switched from driving a Lada to a Honda Accord,” Brynn Tannehill, a former aviator who designed simulators for F-16s, was quoted as saying by Bloomberg, referring to the notoriously clunky Soviet-era Lada car. So, Ukraine shouldn't expect the F-16 jets to enable them to have air superiority. Most likely, the jets will be restricted to defence or used in very high-risk operations. (With inputs from agencies)

First batch of F-16 fighter jets reaches Ukraine after several delays: Report

Finally, 50 years have passed since the fighting falcon widely known as the F-16 took off first maiden flight. Watch in for more details!

50th anniversary of F-16's first flight

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