Ukraine is using Western F-16 fighter jets to repel attacks: Zelenskiy

Ukraine has deployed F-16 fighter jets provided by Western allies to repel Russian air attacks on the battlefield. The country’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this yesterday, Tuesday, saying,

 ‘These fighter jets have been used to destroy Russian drones and missiles used in recent attacks.’

Earlier this month, President Zelenskyy had announced,

 ‘Kyiv has received the first batch of F-16 fighter jets promised by Western allies.’ 

However, he declined to disclose how many F-16s have been received. 

At a press conference in Kyiv yesterday, Zelenskyy said,

 ‘We have already used F-16 fighter jets to destroy several Russian drones and missiles.’

He also stated that Ukraine needs more fighter jets.

Last May, Zelenskyy told AFP,

 ‘His country needs at least 120 fighter jets to achieve ‘parity’ in the war against Russia.’ 

Meanwhile, according to a Reuters report, the F-16 is manufactured by the US arms manufacturer Lockheed Martin. This fighter jet has been well-tested on battlefields worldwide. It is equipped with a 20 mm cannon. Additionally, the fighter jet can carry bombs, rockets, and missiles.