A Ukrainian pilot has achieved a world first by downing six Russian missiles in one mission, showcasing remarkable skill and bravery.
Kyiv: A Ukrainian pilot has become a national hero after shooting down six Russian cruise missiles in a single mission. This incredible feat marks a world first in anti-air combat.
The pilot, flying an F-16, accomplished this during a Russian attack on December 13. Colonel Yuriy Ignat praised the pilot’s success, highlighting the significance of this achievement.
Using a combination of four missiles and an aircraft cannon, the pilot faced a tough challenge. Hitting a missile traveling over 650 km/h is no easy task, but he managed to do it.
He explained that finding the missile in the sky and firing accurately from a close distance was crucial. It’s risky to shoot down cruise missiles with cannons due to their speed and potential for detonation.
But the pilot followed his training and succeeded, even taking down two missiles flying close together at the same time. When he returned, his fellow pilots greeted him with applause and cheers.
Colonel Ignat shared that the day was intense, with nearly 200 enemy drones and various missiles in the air. Despite the lack of modern upgrades on Ukraine’s warplanes, this pilot made history with the F-16.
He shot down four missiles directly and used the cannon to fend off further threats. This Russian assault was one of the most intense attacks during the ongoing conflict.
British Challenger 2 tanks also played a role in helping Ukraine push through Russian defenses in Kursk. Colonel Ignat emphasized that this was the first time an F-16 had shot down six cruise missiles in an anti-aircraft battle.
He expressed confidence in the skills of young Ukrainian pilots, noting how formidable they will be when more advanced aircraft like the F-35s are introduced.
U.S. officials have reportedly been pleasantly surprised by this achievement. This comes after another Ukrainian pilot, Major Vadym Voroshylov, successfully destroyed a bridge in Kursk using U.S.-made missiles.
Meanwhile, the family of a British medic who died while serving in Ukraine expressed their pride in his bravery. Jordan Maclachlan volunteered to help after Russia’s invasion in 2022, and his family remembered him as a fun-loving hero.
