Russians are bluffing about being ready for F-16s – aviation expert on potential air battles

Aviation expert and deputy director of an EW equipment production company, Anatolii Khrapchynskyi, shared this on Espreso TV.

"Ukrainian diplomacy needs to step up and push for acquiring the F-16. These fighters will effectively counter Russian aviation. Modern Russian aircraft suffer losses quickly, much like the Soviet-era Su-25. The Russians may publicly bluff about being ready for this, but I doubt it will lead to direct air battles.

Russia has little to counter with since it lags significantly in avionics. They lack any true 5th-generation aircraft. The Su-57, touted as 5th generation, is really a 4+ generation. Other models like the Su-35, Su-30, and Su-34 are classic 4th-generation aircraft," Khrapchynskyi said.

He pointed out Russia's issues with acquiring technology needed for modernizing aircraft engines.

"Russia used to work closely with France and the USA to obtain certain technologies. Sanctions have ended this cooperation. Now, Russia struggles to get new technology for engine upgrades. For example, the Su-57's engine dates back to Soviet times," he added.

• The first 50 Ukrainian specialists trained for F-16 maintenance have completed their training in Denmark, with most already back in Ukraine. 
• On July 2, it was announced that 24 Dutch F-16 fighter jets will soon be delivered to Ukraine, with the necessary permits already issued.