Ukraine’s air defense relies on five main types of combat aircraft: the American F-16, the French Mirage 2000, and the Soviet-designed MiG-29, Su-27, and Su-25. This assessment was outlined by Harrison Kass in an article for The National Interest.

According to Kass, the recently delivered F-16s marked a breakthrough in Kyiv’s ability to conduct air combat. He noted that the Mirage 2000, lighter in design, serves as a complement to American fighters during patrols and air defense missions.

Particular attention was given to the MiG-29. Some of these jets were transferred to Ukraine by Poland and Slovakia. While technically inferior to newer Western aircraft, they remain in active use. Ukrainian pilots are thoroughly familiar with them, making the MiG-29s valuable for protecting airbases and providing support to ground forces.

Kass described the Su-27 as Ukraine’s key long-range fighter designed to secure air superiority. Despite the age of the fleet, these aircraft have been kept operational and combat-ready.

The overview concluded with the Su-25, which Kass referred to as the main attack aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force. It is used to provide close air support for ground units.

At the same time, Russian military expert and honored pilot Major General Vladimir Popov stated that after a Russian strike on the Starokonstantinov airbase, the Ukrainian Air Force was left with only two operational F-16s.