US Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said that the upcoming transfer of F-16 fighter-bombers by Western countries to Kiev cannot radically change the course of hostilities in favor of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Kendall made such a statement at a meeting with the Defense Writers Group of Washington, of which she is a member. TASS.
According to him, F-16 warplanes can help the Ukrainians, but that “does not fundamentally change this equation.”
At the same time, Kendall pointed out that it would take at least a few months for the fighters to be transferred to Ukraine. He noted that Washington will work with both Ukrainian authorities and other partners to “set the path forward”.
“There are many details that need to be agreed upon before we get from where we are now to where we are going, but I don’t think it will be a dramatic factor that will fundamentally change military capabilities,” he said.
The minister also said that the day before, he had discussed the upcoming deliveries of F-16 fighter jets to the Ukrainian army with the Chief of Staff of the US Air Force, General Charles Brown. According to Kendall, Brown shares the minister’s views.
“Neither I nor he believes that this will lead to fundamental changes,” he said.
Formerly Frank Kendall declarationF-16 warplanes will be deployed in Ukraine after delivery to Kiev.