Ukraine’s Air Force has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a fleet primarily composed of aging Soviet-era aircraft to a more modern and diverse array of aviation assets. This shift has been driven by the ongoing conflict and substantial international support, leading to the integration of advanced Western fighter jets, cutting-edge drones, and enhanced air defense systems.
The current inventory of the Ukrainian Air Force includes a mix of legacy platforms like the MiG-29, Su-27, Su-24, and Su-25, alongside newly acquired Western aircraft such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the Mirage 2000-5. These additions have bolstered Ukraine’s capabilities in air superiority, ground attack, and reconnaissance missions. Furthermore, the rapid development and deployment of various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have provided Ukraine with versatile tools for surveillance and precision strikes.
This overview aims to provide an in-depth look at the current state of Ukraine’s aerial capabilities, detailing each aircraft’s role, specifications, and operational status within the Air Force.
Ukraine's Combat Aircraft
Ukraine’s combat aircraft fleet comprises a blend of Soviet-era platforms and modern Western fighters, reflecting the nation’s efforts to modernize its air force amid ongoing conflict. Key aircraft include the General Dynamics F-16, Mikoyan MiG-29, Sukhoi Su-24, Su-25, Su-27, and the Dassault Mirage 2000.
General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 is a multirole fighter aircraft developed by the United States. Ukraine began receiving F-16s from European allies, including the Netherlands and Denmark, in 2024. These aircraft enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in air-to-air combat and precision ground strikes, utilizing advanced avionics and a wide range of NATO-standard weaponry.
On March 19, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the arrival of additional Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets in Ukraine. While he did not disclose the exact number or origin of the aircraft, Zelensky emphasized that these new arrivals bolster Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. Ukrainian pilots have also reported that the F-16s’ superior systems have significantly improved mission effectiveness.
Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum
The MiG-29 is a Soviet-designed multirole fighter that has been a mainstay of Ukraine’s air force since independence. Despite its age, the MiG-29 remains valuable for air defense and ground attack missions. Ukraine has received additional MiG-29s from allies like Poland and Slovakia, and efforts have been made to upgrade these aircraft with modern avionics and weapon systems.
To protect their MiG-29 fighter jets from Russian attacks, Ukraine has adopted a strategy of dispersing these aircraft across various locations, including airstrips and even highways. This approach aims to minimize the risk of concentrated losses from missile strikes and drone assaults. By spreading out its fleet, the Ukrainian Air Force enhances the survivability of its assets, ensuring that no single attack can incapacitate a significant portion of its air capabilities.
Sukhoi Su-24
The Su-24 is a supersonic, all-weather attack aircraft developed in the Soviet Union. It features variable-sweep wings and a side-by-side cockpit configuration for its two crew members. Ukraine has modified its Su-24s to carry Western munitions, such as the Storm Shadow cruise missile, enhancing their long-range strike capabilities.
Sukhoi Su-25
The Su-25 is a close air support aircraft designed for engaging ground targets. Known for its durability and ability to operate from rough airfields, the Su-25 has been instrumental in supporting Ukrainian ground forces.
Ukraine has transformed its aging Su-25 attack jets into standoff precision bombers by integrating Western-supplied guided munitions, such as the French AASM Hammer glide bombs. This adaptation allows the Su-25s to engage targets from distances beyond the reach of Russian air defenses, reducing the risk to pilots and aircraft.
The shift from traditional close-range rocket attacks to precision bombing reflects Ukraine’s strategic innovation in maximizing the effectiveness of its existing air assets amid ongoing conflict.
Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker
The Su-27 is a Soviet-era air superiority fighter, renowned for its maneuverability and range. Ukraine operates several variants of the Su-27, which continue to serve in air defense roles.
Ukrainian Air Force Su-27 fighter jets have been conducting precision bombing missions targeting bridges in Russia’s Belgorod Oblast. These operations aim to disrupt Russian military logistics and isolate troops by severing key transportation routes. By focusing on infrastructure such as bridges, Ukraine seeks to impede the movement and resupply of Russian forces in the region.
Dassault Mirage 2000
The Mirage 2000 is a French multirole fighter aircraft. In 2024, France pledged to supply Ukraine with Mirage 2000-5 fighters, with deliveries commencing in early 2025.
France has supplied Ukraine with surplus Mirage 2000 fighter jets equipped with powerful radar jamming systems, enhancing Ukraine’s electronic warfare capabilities. These aircraft are expected to play a crucial role in disrupting Russian radar and missile systems, thereby improving the survivability of Ukrainian pilots and the effectiveness of air operations. These aircraft are equipped with advanced avionics and can carry a variety of weapons, including the MICA air-to-air missile and AASM Hammer guided bombs, enhancing Ukraine’s air defense and strike capabilities.
Ukraine's Reconnaissance Aircraft
Ukraine’s Air Force also operates a diverse array of reconnaissance aircraft, blending legacy Soviet-era platforms with modern Western systems to enhance situational awareness and intelligence-gathering capabilities. For example, the combination of the enduring Antonov An-30 and the advanced Saab 340 AEW&C reflects Ukraine’s strategic approach to maintaining robust reconnaissance capabilities while transitioning towards more modern and interoperable systems.
Antonov An-30
The Antonov An-30, known by its NATO reporting name “Clank,” is a Soviet-designed aerial cartography and reconnaissance aircraft developed from the An-24 transport.
Characterized by its distinctive glazed nose for photographic equipment, the An-30 has been utilized for various missions, including aerial mapping, surveillance, and observation flights under the Open Skies Treaty.
Despite its age, the An-30 remains in limited service with the Ukrainian Air Force, primarily within the 15th Transport Aviation Brigade, where it continues to perform aerial inspection and reconnaissance tasks.
Saab 340 AEW&C
In a significant modernization effort, Ukraine has incorporated the Swedish Saab 340 AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft into its fleet.
Equipped with the Erieye radar system, the Saab 340 AEW&C provides 360-degree surveillance capabilities, enabling the detection and tracking of aerial and surface targets over a range of approximately 300 to 450 kilometers, depending on altitude and environmental conditions. This platform enhances Ukraine’s airspace monitoring and command and control capabilities, offering a substantial improvement over previous systems.
The integration of the Saab 340 AEW&C aligns with Ukraine’s broader efforts to modernize its air force and improve interoperability with NATO standards.
Ukraine's Transport and Trainer Aircraft
Ukraine’s Air Force maintains a versatile fleet of transport and trainer aircraft, combining Soviet-era designs with modern upgrades to support logistics, troop movement, and pilot training.
Antonov An-24
The Antonov An-24 is a twin-turboprop transport aircraft designed for short to medium-haul flights. Known for its reliability and ability to operate from unprepared airstrips, the An-24 has been a staple in Ukraine’s military transport operations. It typically accommodates around 50 passengers and is used for both personnel and cargo transport.
Historically, Antonov relied heavily on Russian partnerships for components, engineering expertise, and market access. However, the deterioration of Russia-Ukraine relations, especially following the annexation of Crimea in 2014, led to the severance of these critical ties.
Antonov An-26
An evolution of the An-24, the Antonov An-26 features a rear-loading ramp, enhancing its cargo handling capabilities. This aircraft is utilized for various logistical missions, including the transportation of troops, equipment, and humanitarian aid. Its versatility and rugged design make it suitable for operations in diverse environments.
Antonov An-70
The Antonov An-70 is a medium-range transport aircraft equipped with four propfan engines, offering advanced performance characteristics. Developed to replace the older An-12, the An-70 boasts a significant payload capacity and can operate from short and unprepared runways. Despite limited production, it represents a significant advancement in Ukraine’s airlift capabilities.
Aero L-39 Albatros (Trainer)
The Aero L-39 Albatros is a high-performance jet trainer developed in Czechoslovakia. It serves as the primary training aircraft for Ukrainian pilots, providing instruction in basic flight maneuvers and advanced combat tactics. The L-39’s adaptability also allows it to perform light-attack roles, making it a valuable asset in both training and operational scenarios.
The new L-39NG, on the other hand, is a modern, multifunctional platform capable of pilot training, light combat, and reconnaissance missions. Building upon the legacy of the L-39 Albatros, which Ukrainian pilots are familiar with, the L-39NG incorporates new materials, a modern engine, and advanced avionics, enhancing safety and flight characteristics.
Ukraine's Helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Ukraine’s Air Force employs a combination of Soviet-era helicopters and modern unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to fulfill various operational roles, including transport, command and control, and reconnaissance.
Mil Mi-8
The Mil Mi-8 is a versatile, medium twin-turbine helicopter originally developed by the Soviet Union in the 1960s. It serves multiple roles such as troop transport, cargo delivery, and medical evacuation.
The Ukrainian Air Force utilizes the Mi-8 for its reliability and adaptability in various missions. Notably, on December 31, 2024, Ukraine’s military intelligence reported the downing of a Russian Mi-8 helicopter using a missile-firing sea drone, marking a significant moment in modern warfare and highlighting the evolving threats faced by such aircraft.
Mil Mi-9
The Mil Mi-9 is a specialized variant of the Mi-8, configured as an airborne command post. It is equipped with advanced communication and navigation systems, allowing for effective command and control during operations. Ukraine employs the Mi-9 to coordinate complex missions and maintain communication in challenging environments.
Mil Mi-17
The Mil Mi-17 is an upgraded version of the Mi-8, featuring enhanced engines and avionics. It is used by the Ukrainian Air Force for transport and utility missions.
Bayraktar TB2 (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)
The Bayraktar TB2 is a Turkish-made medium-altitude, long-endurance UAV capable of conducting surveillance and precision strikes. Ukraine has integrated the TB2 into its military operations, utilizing it for intelligence gathering and targeted attacks. The TB2 has proven effective in various combat scenarios, providing real-time intelligence and supporting ground forces.
The drone’s role in Ukraine elevated its reputation further, as it was used to strike Russian forces and equipment, sometimes becoming a symbol of resistance.
