Ukraine’s Air Force Has Downed Over 26,500 Russian Threats Since 2022 and Counting

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukrainian pilots have played a key role in targeting Russian infrastructure and military assets. Ukraine’s Air Force has flown over 20,000 missions, about 10,000 to attack Russian targets, and more than 12,000 to protect other aircraft in combat, according to a statement made by The Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

“Ukrainian pilots are increasingly attacking the occupier from the air with all available means — both from old Soviet-era aircraft and from captured F-16s and Mirage-2000s.”

Russian air attack vehicles have been shot down, including 370 aircraft, 331 helicopters, and thousands of drones and missiles. Tactical aviation has carried out over 20,000 sorties, including approximately 10,000 combat strikes and more than 12,000 fighter cover missions.

In addition to its aerial operations, Air Force personnel have fought on the ground as part of Ukraine’s broader military effort. They have served alongside marines, paratroopers, and ground forces brigades across various frontline sectors.

In addition, over the three years of full-scale war, Ukrainian air defenses have intercepted 93% of Shahed drones and 32% of incoming missiles. Russia has launched over 30,000 aerial threats at Ukraine, including around 21,000 drones and 10,000 missiles, according to graphics by UA War Infographics.

Earlier, the French military released footage of Ukrainian pilots training on recently delivered Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets. The video, published on February 7, marks the first official confirmation of the aircraft’s arrival in Ukraine.