Ukrainian F-16s Strike Russian Ground Targets with Precision Attacks

A confirmed image of a Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet returning from a strike mission has surfaced online, marking the first verified attack by a Ukrainian F-16 on an enemy ground target, according to Bulgarian Military. The aircraft, captured mid-flight while banking after its mission, reportedly released its payload on a Russian position. The pylon configuration suggests the use of JDAM-ER, JSOW, or HARM, confirming that Ukrainian F-16s are now fully operational and engaging in precision strikes against enemy positions.

For months, Ukraine has been integrating Western-supplied F-16s into its air force, training pilots, and preparing for their deployment. Initially seen as air-superiority assets to counter Russian aircraft and cruise missiles, this latest strike demonstrates their effectiveness in offensive operations.

The released image suggests that the Ukrainian F-16 may have employed one of the following munitions:

JDAM-ER (Joint Direct Attack Munition – Extended Range): A GPS-guided bomb with a wing kit that extends its range to 80 km, allowing Ukrainian forces to strike from a safer distance while minimizing exposure to Russian air defenses.
JSOW (AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon): A precision-guided glide bomb with a range of up to 130 km, capable of hitting heavily fortified targets and critical infrastructure.
AGM-88 HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile): Designed for SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses), this missile targets and destroys enemy radar installations, weakening Russian air defense networks.
The successful deployment of these advanced weapons underscores Ukraine’s growing ability to strike high-value targets deep behind enemy lines, compelling Russia to reassess its defensive strategies. The F-16AM Fighting Falcons supplied to Ukraine primarily come from European stockpiles, including Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway. While these are not the latest F-16 variants, they remain highly capable multirole fighters, equipped with modern avionics, radar systems, and advanced weapons integration.

This development marks a turning point in Ukraine’s air capabilities, demonstrating its ability to conduct strategic strikes and further challenging Russian forces on the battlefield.

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