Ukraine chooses three Western fighters to build its air force around. One of them can fly again from stretch of road in 15 to 20 minutes

Ukraine has narrowed its focus to three Western fighter jet platforms for its expanding air force. Colonel Oleksandr Diakiv, head of Ukraine's Air Force Command, revealed the decision during a segment on the Air Force's operations.

The three chosen platforms are the Swedish JAS 39 Gripen, the French Rafale, and the American F-16. Ukraine, which has been engaged in a full-scale war using Soviet-era jets, has recently procured F-16s and is set to receive Mirage 2000s from France and Gripen jets from Sweden.

The choice was not solely based on performance, but also on factors such as sustained use, armament, repair capabilities, weapons compatibility, logistics, parts availability, and the speed of repairs and battle-damage recovery. Diakiv explained that Ukraine has determined it can effectively operate all three platforms.

The F-16, already in service in Ukraine, will provide the Air Force with a trained pilot, technician, and specialist workforce, thereby expediting the integration of the other Western platforms. Diakiv highlighted the Gripen's suitability for a nation under siege, mentioning its ability to operate from makeshift surfaces and requiring minimal ground crew for rapid rearmament.

However, Diakiv emphasized that acquiring a new platform is more than just delivering the jets. It necessitates the simultaneous arrival of weapons, ground support, parts, logistics, and a trained workforce. Ukrainian pilots, engineers, and logistics experts are currently receiving training abroad to facilitate the transition.

Diakiv stressed that combat experience is becoming increasingly integral to the aviation coalition, with allies assisting Ukraine in applying lessons learned from its own battles, rather than merely offering pre-packaged solutions.