Ukraine's F-16 Fleet Is In A Readiness Crisis

Ukraine's F-16 force is reportedly facing a readiness shortfall, with more than half of delivered aircraft sometimes unavailable because of maintenance, spare-parts and support constraints. Open-source estimates place deliveries at roughly 40 to 50 jets, with five combat losses, while shortages of AMRAAM and Sidewinder missiles further limit sustained counter-drone sorties. A U.S.-approved support arrangement involving Sabena could provide up to $235.5 million in maintenance through January 2029, but restoring availability will require trained personnel, spares, infrastructure and dependable ammunition supplies rather than additional airframes alone.