It is becoming increasingly obvious that Ukraine’s military requires a contemporary upgrade to protect against Russia’s invasion. Given that Poland has already expressed its willingness to transfer F-16 fighter planes in collaboration with NATO, it is time to resurrect a Reagan-era option.
The F-16 Can Correct a Disadvantage
The mismatch between Russia’s advanced military technology and Ukraine’s obsolete military equipment is one of the most important reasons an upgrade is needed. Ukrainian pilots especially are at a severe disadvantage, because Soviet-era aircraft like the MiG-29 cannot compete with contemporary fighter aircraft in terms of performance. In contrast, the F-16 is a fighter with a strong track record of success in combat missions. Indeed, the fighter aircraft is the “most agile ever manufactured, with the exception of the F-22,” according to retired Maj. Gen. Michael Fantini, who flew F-16s during the Iraq War. It is therefore the best option for the Ukrainian air force.
The potential military edge granted by the F-16 is important, but it is not the only reason to send these planes to Kyiv. Giving Ukraine access to such weapons would make a clear statement to Russia about how seriously the international community takes Ukraine’s sovereignty. As Evelyn Farkas, the top Pentagon official for Ukraine during the Obama administration, stated, “We have a pattern; if we say we will provide categories of equipment, then our allies will do so … They seem to be super afraid of Russia directing ire at any one NATO country.” Indeed, they appear quite terrified of that prospect. But with NATO’s backing, Poland would provide F-16s to Ukraine, presenting a unified approach that would allay NATO members’ concerns about being singled out by Russia.
A History of Defeatist Dithering
We have learned from history that delaying the delivery of weaponry to nations in need can have devastating repercussions.
The Spanish Civil War, which lasted from 1936 to 1939, is among the most terrible instances of this. The world community declined to provide the military backing needed to put down General Francisco Franco’s nationalist rebellion, despite appeals from Spain’s Republican government. This lack of backing significantly contributed to the downfall of the Republicans and the installation of a dictatorship that lasted until 1975.
In the early stages of World War II, the United States took its time supplying Britain with armaments since it was still only partially involved. The German military used this delay to its considerable advantage, forcing the surrender of France and the evacuation of British forces from Dunkirk.
The United States was hesitant to provide South Vietnam, which was at war with the communist North, with weaponry during the Vietnam War. Saigon eventually fell, and the nation was united under a communist regime as a result. It was the lack of material support that allowed the North Vietnamese forces to take the upper hand.
Global Support for F-16s
It would be a mistake to undervalue the advantages the F-16 would create for the Ukrainian military. The spokesperson for the Ukrainian air force, Yurii Ihnat, said that it would only take Ukrainian pilots a few weeks to learn how to fly the F-16s, and several months to become proficient with them. With the right instruction, the air force would rapidly incorporate the F-16s into their operations and utilize them to launch counteroffensives over land that Russia has captured.
The F-16 is one of the most commonly utilized fighter jets in the world in terms of logistics, and several U.S. allies have it in their fleets. This means that the F-16 supply chain has strong, global backing, making it simpler for Ukraine to sustain the aircraft over time.
Various missions may also be carried out by F-16 planes. These aircraft can be used for purposes other than straightforward defense. Ukraine is currently using its air force to shoot down missiles fired by Russia and Iran that are aimed toward its borders. A fighter jet like the F-16 can be more effective in destroying air targets than an air defense system, because it can move to any part of Ukraine and intercept a rocket, while air defense systems need to be stationed in places where a missile attack is anticipated.
Inspiration From Reagan
That brings us to comparable U.S. efforts during the Reagan administration. In an effort to support regional stability and deter Soviet invasion, the U.S. gave F-16s to a number of nations, including Egypt, Pakistan, and Israel. This tactic was effective in preventing Soviet expansionism and helping these nations protect themselves against possible dangers.
Critics contend that arming Ukraine with cutting-edge weapons might intensify the conflict and spark a wider war. While this may seem like a legitimate worry, it is vital to keep in mind that the situation in Ukraine is already extremely combustible, and giving the nation the tools it needs to defend itself could actually help defuse the broader danger. The international community would be telling Russia that it would not put up with aggression against its neighbors and that any efforts will be met with resistance by bolstering Ukraine’s military.
Additionally, providing Ukraine with F-16s would help progress its technical and economic development. Ukraine would have access to cutting-edge research and development centers and be able to draw highly qualified engineers and technicians if it acquired superior military technologies. This may result in the development of a robust military sector and support Ukraine’s overall economic expansion.
Finally, it is important to remember that the F-16 is more than simply a weapon; it is also a representation of American military might and technical might. Giving Ukraine F-16s would show that the United States is still a major military force and that it is dedicated to helping its allies and partners in the face of hardship, in a world where global powers are vying for supremacy and influence.
In conclusion, it is crucial that the international community take into account all alternatives for aiding Ukraine and maintaining its stability and security. It is a simple and sensible answer to give Ukraine F-16 fighter planes with NATO’s backing, since it would send a strong message to Russia and help thwart any aggression. The international community can contribute to preserving stability and peace in the area for future generations by supporting democracy and safeguarding its neighbors’ sovereignty.
Therefore, let’s act to safeguard democracy in Ukraine in the manner of President Reagan. The whole society has to overcome its apprehensions and take decisive action because, as the great philosopher George Santayana once stated, “those who cannot recall the past are bound to repeat it.”
Maksym Skrypchenko in 2021 commenced his tenure as the President of the Transatlantic Dialogue Center, where he is responsible for leading the organization’s efforts to promote understanding and cooperation between Europe and the United States. Under his leadership, the Center is becoming a leading voice in the transatlantic community, providing expert analysis and recommendations on a wide range of issues.
This was published on 2/11/2023.
