Ukraine aims to weaken Russian air defense ahead of receiving F-16s – ISW

The Institute for the Study of War reported the information.

"Ukrainian forces may seek to actively degrade Russian air defenses before Ukraine receives a significant number of aircraft in order to set conditions for Ukraine’s future use of manned fixed-wing airpower closer to frontline areas," the report says.

Ukrainian Armed Forces are likely trying to weaken Russia's air defense ahead of the anticipated deliveries of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, which are reportedly expected to begin in small numbers in the summer and fall of 2024.

ISW noted that the Ukrainian Armed Forces may eventually work on a concept of operations if the Ukrainian military receives a sufficient number of fighters, Western partners provide enough trained pilots, and if Ukraine manages to reduce the capabilities of Russian air defense.

• On the night of June 12, the Ukrainian Defense Forces launched a group missile strike on the temporarily occupied Crimea and destroyed two Russian S-300 and S-400 radars.