Ukrainian F-16 pilot sets world record by shooting down 6 missiles in a single sortie
During a massive attack on December 13, a Ukrainian F-16 pilot shot down six cruise missiles, even using an aircraft cannon. This marked a first in the history of warfare.
Photo: facebook.com/kpszsu
On December 13, 2024, an unprecedented event occurred in the skies over Ukraine, as reported by Colonel Yuriy Ihnat, Head of the Public Relations Service of the Ukrainian Air Force Command.
During Russia's massive air attack on Ukraine, involving nearly 200 drones, "Kinzhal" missiles, and 94 cruise missiles, a Ukrainian F-16 pilot set a world record by destroying six enemy cruise missiles in a single combat sortie.
The event was made possible by the pilot's skill, courage, and unique technical solutions. First, he destroyed four missiles using the standard armament of the F-16 — two types of guided air-to-air missiles.
Following this, with critically limited fuel, the pilot took a risky decision to engage in combat using the aircraft cannon.
An enemy missile traveling at over 650 km/h was hit from a distance of less than 500 meters. Despite the complexity of the task and the risk of warhead detonation, the pilot successfully destroyed two targets flying in a tactical "stack" configuration.
This event became historic: for the first time in the history of the American-made F-16, six cruise missiles were downed in a single sortie, including two using an aircraft cannon.
The hero returned to base amidst applause from his colleagues. His feat was recognized not only by the Ukrainian Air Force Command but also by American instructors, who were surprised to learn about such a use of the aircraft.
This success highlighted the importance of modern aircraft for protecting Ukrainian skies. The pilot dedicated his achievement to his fallen comrades who had been waiting for F-16s to be deployed in Ukraine.
It was earlier reported that the U.S. allocated $20 billion to assist Ukraine, using proceeds from frozen Russian assets. The funds were directed toward supporting the country in the war, including projects related to the F-16.
It also became known that on December 31, 2024, Ukrainian intelligence successfully eliminated an aerial target using the Magura V5 maritime drone armed with missiles, marking a significant breakthrough.