Aviation expert explains how Ukraine can contribute to European air defense forces

Anatolii Khrapchynskyi, deputy director general of a company that produces electronic warfare equipment, aviation expert, shared this on Espreso TV.

"If Poland's air defense systems operate from its territory, their range will be limited to 150 kilometers. If we consider the possibility of entering Ukrainian airspace, then we can cover the entire right bank of Ukraine, even reaching Kyiv. There are aircraft in Poland that Sweden is going to give us. These, along with F-16s, can work effectively. This way, not only Kyiv can be protected, but also other regions. However, this is a matter of closing the airspace by the military forces of another country," he said.

A unified air defence force in Europe would allow aircraft not only from Poland, but also from France and Romania to defend Ukraine's airspace. However, this is a complicated issue of diplomacy, said Khrapchynskyi.

"Poland is actively advocating for the creation of a unified European air defense force, aiming to unify all countries into a single system. This would significantly enhance coordination of capabilities, allowing countries with larger systems to better distribute their forces. Ukraine could potentially join these forces, leveraging its unique experience in shooting down Russian Kh-101 and Kinzhal missiles to share knowledge.

We should use this thesis to negotiate with Europe about creating a unified air defense force. Ukrainian F-16s provided by Western partners could then be stationed in Poland or Romania without engaging in combat, which is legally easier to do. Poland would not agree to host planes conducting combat missions in Ukraine, as this would imply direct involvement in the war against Russia," the aviation expert concluded.

• Anatolii Khrapchynskyi also noted that Russian forces are bluffing about being ready for F-16 aircraft in Ukraine.