How far can Ukraine's F-16s defend beyond frontline and counter Russian KABs

He spoke about this on Espreso TV.

"F-16 is a multi-role aircraft that can be used for various tasks, including enhancing air defense. Given the announced armament we'll receive with the aircraft, F-16s can also perform additional roles. This includes protecting airspace and destroying aerial targets, which can drive Russian aviation away from the range of guided munitions, including guided bombs," noted Bohdan Dolintse.

According to Dolintse, the range of Russia's guided bombs is between 50 km and 70 km, depending on the bomb's weight.

"With F-16s and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles with a strike range of up to 105 km, plus the fighter's onboard radar capable of detecting and engaging targets at 160 km or more, these aircraft can effectively drive away Russian aviation, significantly reducing the effectiveness of Russian guided bombs. Alternatively, the Russians will have to enter the F-16's engagement zone," explained the aviation expert.

Dolintse also noted that F-16s are planned to operate from 50 km or more from the front line to avoid entering the Russian air defense zone.

"Based on this, we can talk about the depth of the F-16's defense being 50-60 km behind the front line or directly into the territory of Russia if we are allowed to shoot down Russian air targets in Russian airspace along with the aircraft," summarized the expert.

• The first batch of F-16 fighters from NATO allies has arrived in Ukraine. The number of jets is small.
• On August 4, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the first F-16 fighter jets had arrived in Ukraine.