A Ukrainian F-16 fighter jet has scored its first air-to-air victory by shooting down a Russian aircraft.U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine during a Senate […]
According to several reports published on social networks on October 13, 2024, an F-16 fighter jet operated by the Ukrainian Air Force shot down a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber. This victory, Ukraine’s first in air-to-air combat using the F-16, was achieved with the advanced AIM-9X Sidewinder missile, known for its infrared homing and high maneuverability.
I don’t think it was the first time. From https://www.armyrecognition.com/archives/archives-land-defense/land-defense-2024/breaking-news-ukrainian-f-16-fighter-wins-first-air-to-air-fight-shoots-down-russian-su-34
According to several reports published on social networks on October 13, 2024, an F-16 fighter jet operated by the Ukrainian Air Force shot down a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber. This victory, Ukraine’s first in air-to-air combat using the F-16, was achieved with the advanced AIM-9X Sidewinder missile, known for its infrared homing and high maneuverability.
The difference may be shooting a fighter down instead of a bomber. -34’s are “fighter-bombers” but AFAIK they are mainly used for ground attack roles
Thanks!