F-16s grounded, missiles running short: The Ukraine lesson behind India’s push for Astra

 Ukraine’s fleet of F-16 fighters is experiencing significant issues related to maintenance and missile shortages. More than half of the aircraft are stuck in maintenance limbo, raising concerns about operational sustainability. The shortage of air-to-air missiles has forced pilots to ration missile use and rely on alternative ammunition. This situation highlights the necessity of supporting fighter jets in prolonged conflicts. Ukraine’s fleet of F-16 fighters is experiencing significant issues related to maintenance and missile shortages. More than half of the aircraft are stuck in maintenance limbo, raising concerns about operational sustainability. The shortage of air-to-air missiles has forced pilots to ration missile use and rely on alternative ammunition. This situation highlights the necessity of supporting fighter jets in prolonged conflicts.