Pilot dead, F-16 downed as Ukraine repels Russian nighttime strike

A Ukrainian pilot was killed and his F-16 fighter jet lost while defending against a major Russian missile and drone attack overnight, Ukraine's military said on Sunday.

Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed the death of the pilot, who managed to shoot down seven incoming air targets before his aircraft was damaged.

"The pilot used all of his onboard weapons and shot down seven air targets. While shooting down the last one, his aircraft was damaged and began to lose altitude," the Air Force said on its Telegram channel.

The statement did not specify the exact location or time of the incident but noted it was part of a large-scale Russian nighttime assault involving both missiles and drones.

This is the third reported loss of an F-16 fighter jet since Ukraine began deploying the Western-supplied aircraft in its defence against Russian attacks.

Ukrainian forces have recently stepped up their air defence efforts as Russia continues to target critical infrastructure and military facilities across the country.

Officials have repeatedly emphasised the importance of F-16s in strengthening Ukraine’s air capabilities, especially as Russia intensifies its missile strikes.

The identity of the pilot has not been released, but tributes are being paid across social media by military colleagues and supporters, hailing him as a hero who sacrificed his life to protect Ukrainian cities from further destruction.

Copied