Ukrainian F-16 fighter jets lacked a sufficient number of missiles to intercept Russian drones and missiles for more than three weeks after supplies from Kyiv’s partners were exhausted. This was reported by Reuters, citing informed sources.
Source: Censor.NET
According to the publication, the acute ammunition shortage lasted from late November to mid-December. During this period, Ukraine had only a few American AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for all F-16 fighters.
Due to the missile shortage, Ukrainian pilots were forced to use onboard cannons to destroy Russian drones. Combat sorties were carried out mainly during the day, as night operations under such conditions significantly increased the risks.
Pilots also attempted to reuse missiles that had failed during launches. After technical servicing, some of them were successfully used again during combat missions.