Analysts at the American magazine Military Watch Magazine believe Ukraine’s low-altitude flight tactics have lost much of their effectiveness.

According to the outlet, the shift became clear after a Russian Su-35 reportedly shot down an F-16 for the first time. The publication argues that the Russian Aerospace Forces have found a working method to counter Western aircraft. Ukrainian aviation, the authors note, has already had to make major tactical adjustments.

To keep operating in areas where more capable Russian fighters, including the Su-35, dominate the airspace, Ukrainian aircraft began flying at extremely low altitudes. This approach was intended to use terrain interference to reduce the effectiveness of Russian tracking radars and missile guidance systems. Ukrainian planes have also been operating from deeper rear areas to limit exposure and lower the risk of direct engagements.

The publication noted that it remains unclear which weapon was used to destroy the Ukrainian F-16. Western analysts believe the Su-35 may have used a new-generation missile against which standard evasive maneuvers are ineffective. The authors recalled that in July 2025, the Russian Aerospace Forces began receiving R-77M active radar-guided air-to-air missiles, designed to replace the older R-77-1 and R-27.

If the use of the R-77M is confirmed, Ukrainian fighter units may have to revise their operational planning even further. In that scenario, analysts believe missions could be pushed even farther from the front line to reduce the chances of aerial combat.