USA to Equip Ukrainian F-16s with Modern Armaments

The United States has agreed to equip Ukrainian F-16s with modern armaments, including HARM and AMRAAM missiles. A senior U.S. official stated, "Training for pilots and maintenance of the aircraft remain challenges for the effective use of fighters, although the Pentagon has limited inventory and production capabilities. It will provide precision-guided kits and advanced missiles that are sufficient to meet Ukraine's most urgent needs."

"We are confident that we will be able to deliver all of that, at least in the critical volumes needed," the U.S. official added.

The U.S. will arm the F-16 with AGM-88 HARM air-to-ground missiles, as well as systems for precision-guided munitions that convert unguided bombs into smart weapons, along with so-called small diameter bombs that detonate with restricted blast radius. Additionally, the U.S. will supply medium-range advanced air-to-air missiles known as AMRAAMs, and short-range AIM-9X air-to-air missiles for the fighters.