Ukrainian Air Force F-16 pilots are operating with a severe shortage of air-to-air missiles, forcing some daytime sorties to rely solely on the aircraft’s internal 20mm cannon to engage Russian aerial threats. The lack of missiles has led to rationing, with commanders monitoring shipments by the minute to ensure weapons arrive before the next Russian barrage.
A senior Ukrainian Air Force commander, identified as “Phantom” of the 107th Wing, confirmed the crisis, stating that any aircraft without weapons is effectively useless. The F-16s, now a key part of Ukraine’s layered air defenses, primarily carry AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, but inventory constraints are forcing pilots to prioritize engagements and use guns—a tactic that carries higher risks, especially against small or slow targets.
The shortage extends beyond F-16s, straining Ukraine’s broader air defense network, including Patriot interceptors. Global demand for advanced air defense weapons is outpacing production, leaving Ukraine vulnerable. Phantom urged Western partners to increase missile production, localize manufacturing in Europe, and tighten sanctions to block Russian access to missile components, warning that winter could bring intensified Russian attacks on critical infrastructure.
