Ukrainian F-16 fighter makes history striking down Russian Su-35 jet

To Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet took out an airborne Russian Su-35 for the primary time within the battle — two years after the US-made plane arrived within the nation, America’s prime navy chief stated.

Gen. Dan Caine, The chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, instructed US ruling on Tuesday that the plane supplied by America to Ukraine have confirmed to be an enormous success.

“Recently, we had the first air-to-air kill where a Ukrainian F-16 shot down a Russian fighter,” Caine stated on Tuesday.

While Caine didn’t determine the Russian plane, Ukrainian media stated it was an Su-35 that was shot down in japanese Ukraine on July 8.

The US-made F-16 fighter jets arrived in Ukraine in 2024. NATO allies educated Kyiv’s pilots to fly the plane to assist bolster the nation’s air defenses in opposition to Moscow’s relentless bombardments.

The F-16s have been profitable in intercepting Russian missiles and drones, however earlier rocket shortages have stored the fighter jets from reaching their full potential.

The July 8 strike, nevertheless, represents a primary within the battle and a giant leap for Ukraine’s protection and counterattack programs, Caine stated.

“I think their ability to scale their layered defense has come a long way over the last couple years with the help and assistance of many,” he instructed lawmakers.

Ukraine is believed to have a complete of 39 F-16s in service after shedding not less than three against Russiain accordance with native media.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has touted the plane as one of many nation’s strongest and sought-after instruments to defend in opposition to Moscow’s assaults.

Ukraine is presently within the means of receiving seven extra F-16s from Belgium this 12 months, with the nation reportedly set to switch its total F-16 fleet of 43 plane within the coming years.