The US has confirmed the transfer of disused F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, but these jets are non-operational and intended solely for parts. Ukraine's air force has received operational F-16s from European countries. The Air Force spokesperson emphasized that the retired aircraft lack essential components and cannot be restored for flight. Images of the non-flyable jets being transported have circulated, and this transfer coincided with new agreements between Washington and Kyiv, suggesting a shift in US military support strategy toward Ukraine.
These F-16s were retired from active US use and are not flyable. Importantly, they lack critical components, such as an engine or radar.
The department has supported the sustainment of European donated F-16s to Ukraine by providing disused and completely non-operational F-16s to Ukraine for parts.
While Ukraine's air force has received operational American-made F-16 fighter jets from European countries, the US has not sent any operational aircraft itself.
The transfer of F-16s for spare parts, however, could be a sign that Washington is adjusting its approach to military support for Ukraine.
Collection
[
|
...
]