First F-16 photo during combat mission in Ukraine emerges online — what does it reveal?

Defense Express reports. 

Under the wings, three external fuel tanks are visible, capable of holding 1,040 gallons (3,940 liters) of aviation fuel. With such a fuel load, the aircraft has an approximate range of 1,700 km, indicating that the mission was long and likely covered a significant distance.

The F-16 was likely tasked with covering a strike group, protecting aircraft conducting attacks on ground targets from aerial threats.

This suggests that while older MiG-29 and Su-27 aircraft previously fulfilled this role, they have now been replaced by the F-16. The combat capabilities of the F-16 are significantly higher, making it especially valuable in escort missions. This also allows the MiG-29 to be repurposed for other missions, such as deploying French AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs, footage of which began appearing in 2024, months before the first F-16s arrived in Ukraine.

More important, however, is the aircraft’s weaponry. Under its wings, air-to-air missiles with infrared homing—AIM-9 short-range missiles—are visible. Judging by their fin design, these appear to be the AIM-9X variant. Previously, photos showed Ukrainian F-16s armed with older AIM-9L or AIM-9M versions.

ECIPS/CJS, CAIM-120B and AIM-9M/L on the Ukrainian F-16 (Photo: Defense Express)

On the wingtip hardpoint, an AIM-120C AMRAAM air-to-air missile is mounted. The missile's fin shape distinguishes it from older versions—modern variants have a trapezoidal shape, whereas older ones had triangular fins.

Interestingly, the aircraft is carrying two AIM-9X missiles but only one AIM-120C, even though its standard loadout includes two of each. This suggests that the aircraft has already used one AIM-120C in combat.

Another notable feature is the presence of the ECIPS/CJS pod from the Danish company Terma and the Italian firm Leonardo. Although this pod had been seen before, it remains significant as it integrates a powerful digital electronic warfare (EW) system. This system can jam enemy radar on aircraft and surface-to-air missile systems while also detecting incoming missiles as part of its threat-warning capabilities.