Ukraine Prepares for F-16s by Weakening Russian Air Defenses in Strategic Areas, Says ISW

Ukrainian forces are reportedly making efforts to weaken Russian air defense capabilities ahead of the receiving of F-16 fighter jets, according to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).

On the night of June 11-12, Ukrainian forces targeted one S-300 battery and two S-400 batteries near the occupied areas of Belbek and Sevastopol in Crimea. ISW analysts note that geolocation images published on June 12 show damaged and destroyed Russian S-300 systems north of occupied Yevpatoria and a destroyed Russian S-400 radar system south of occupied Dzhankoi, confirming reports from the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces on June 10 about strikes on Russian air defense assets in these areas.

Additionally, it’s reported that Ukrainian forces used HIMARS to destroy four Russian S-300 systems in the Belgorod region. The destruction of Russian air defense systems in the Belgorod region reportedly prompted Russian command to relocate air defense assets from Crimea to this territory, further weakening air defense capabilities on the temporarily occupied peninsula.

ISW underscores that S-300/S-400 systems and Su-57 fighter jets are vital Russian air defense assets, hindering Ukrainian flights near the front lines and supporting Russian offensive operations in Ukraine.

Analysts believe that Ukrainian armed forces may eventually transition to air support for ground operations if they receive a sufficient number of fighter jets and if Western partners provide enough qualified pilots. Ukrainian officials have previously stated that at least 150 F-16 aircraft are necessary to gain air superiority and support ground operations.