US Defense Minister Frank Kendall has stated that the upcoming delivery of F-16 fighter bombers to Ukraine by the Western allies will not fundamentally change the power dynamics in the conflict with Russia, according to TASS.
Speaking about the plans to deliver F-16 aircraft to Kiev, Kendall noted that it would be an important addition to Ukraine’s capabilities but would not be a game-changer in the situation.
“This will provide the Ukrainian authorities with an enhancement to their potential, which is important. However, I would not say that it will fundamentally change the power balance,” Kendall emphasized.
Previously, the head of European diplomacy, Josep Borrell, had mentioned the lack of specifics regarding the timing of the F-16 transfer to Ukraine.
The Pentagon had previously stated that Ukrainian pilots would need five to nine months to complete training on operating fourth-generation F-16 fighter jets in the United States.
A political analyst had earlier identified the main problem with the F-16 deliveries to Ukraine.
