Russia - threadbanned users in OP

Also, worth keeping in mind that the first ten or so aircraft will likely never touch down on Ukrainian soil, or at least not until after the end of the conflict. If UkrAF command is smart, they'll use those to set up an operational conversion unit in one of the western nations in order to have their own training pipeline.

and yes, it's worth repeating that there will be significant training required. Whilst a lot of Ukrainians sent to train on F-16s will be "current" on the main fighter and trainer aircraft currently in Ukraine's inventory, and know all about how aircraft actually work, stall speeds, etc., they will not be used to the F-16s cockpit layout, or the the underlying operating concepts. The cockpit layout and the peculiarities of the F-16s flight characteristics are easily taught, especially to seasoned pilots. A few weeks of ground school and simulator sessions, and most experienced pilots should be able to transition to the real aircraft.

The operating concept is a different matter. I may have touched on this before, but given how rapidly this thread is still growing, it's worth repeating. Western pilots in general have a lot more autonomy in planning and carrying out their mission compared to what pilots brought up along Soviet or Russian principles would have. As such, they're expected to be much more aware of the tactical situation around them, and able to adjust quickly. The F-16's entire cockpit layout is designed around it, from the HUD to the large displays, the information that is available to the pilot, and the ability to integrate the aircraft with other F-16s, to the massively increased visibility and reliance on HOTAS controls. You don't fly and fight this aircraft so much as you "manage" it, whereas on the MiG-29 or Su-25, you'd have enough information to get to your target and deliver your ordnance, and that's it.

This much wider perspective, the wealth of information and the tactical freedom going along with it will be the biggest advantage for Ukrainian pilots, but it'll also require a massive shift in the operating philosophy, from mission planning to actual combat. If Ukrainian pilots can handle this change in operating philosophy, and to be honest, I'm pretty sure they will, then even these relatively simple F-16s can be a massive boost for the Ukrainian Air Force.

According to telegram, Pskov under attack again tonight.

Gives a new meaning to "Blue Screen of Death"... 😬

It's RTE, are you really surprised at this stage.

We now know cheap drones have changed how wars are going to be fought for the foreseeable, it will be interesting what the US come up with in this aspect. Do they improve on the switchblade or start again or maybe come up with ways to defend against them. Probably all of the above and they have no better testing ground than Ukraine.

Right now the Gepard might be one such defence against the Lancets and the Russians own FPV drones. I know they are doing a job protecting against the Shaheds but would some be of use at the front lines as part of the offensive? The KA-52s would probqbly be the real danger to them.