How many F-16s does Ukraine need for superiority over the enemy

Brigadier General Serhiy Holubtsov, head of aviation at the Air Force Command of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said this in an interview to Radio Liberty'sDonbass Realii project.

According to Holubtsov, Ukraine needs 3-4 squadrons of F-16s of 12-16 aircraft each.

If we understand that there is a grouping of, let's say, 50 squadrons and 39 airfields against us, from which they carry out tasks, of course we would like more. But if it is at least 3-4 squadrons, I think that in a separate direction we will be able to gain an air advantage and force the enemy to give up the strikes they are launching now in a particular area, in a particular strip of defense. In order to plan an operation to destroy or strike... it's worth talking about at least a squadron, at least 12-16 planes.

At the same time, the military responds that Russia no longer has an advantage in the air, because Ukraine has received quality air defence from partner countries: radar detection stations, surveillance, anti-aircraft missile systems.