Russian aircraft

Ukraine's Air Force says its F-16 Fighting Falcon jets are operating with limited stocks of air-to-air munitions, constraining how often and how aggressively the aircraft can be used against Russian missiles and drones. The US-supplied fighters have become central to Ukraine's air defences, and shortfalls in ammunition have repeatedly raised concerns about sustaining operations.

A Russian Tu-95MS strategic bomber has crashed in the Amur region of eastern Russia, according to Ukrainian military outlet Militarnyi. The Tu-95 is a Cold War-era long-range aircraft used by Russia to launch cruise missiles at Ukraine, so news of the loss is drawing attention. Interest is spread across multiple countries, with search interest rising in Italy and France.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Belgium will transfer three F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of the year. The announcement adds to the coalition of Western partners supplying the aircraft as Ukraine continues to seek air power to counter Russian attacks. Further details on delivery timing or training were not given.