United to win: Ukrainian F-16s receive over 50,000 rounds of ammunition from Denmark
Loading 20mm ammunition onto an F-16 fighter jet. Photo source: Frank Carter
Denmark has accelerated the delivery of over 50,000 rounds of 20mm ammunition for F-16 fighter aircraft cannons to Ukraine.
Ukrainian pilots are already using the newly delivered ammunition to intercept Russian jet-powered attack drones, according to Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, Rubryka writes.
"Denmark delivered over 50,000 rounds of 20mm ammunition for F-16 fighter cannons to Ukraine on an expedited schedule," the statement reads.
The ministry expressed gratitude to Denmark for its prompt response to the request for additional ammunition and emphasized the importance of this assistance in strengthening Ukrainian air defense.
"We are grateful to Denmark for its quick and effective response to the request for additional ammunition. Such promptness is directly vital for strengthening Ukrainian air defense and protecting people from Russian air attacks," the statement added.
Background
As Rubryka wrote, Ukraine requires additional missiles for F-16 fighters, as a shortage forces Ukrainian pilots to conserve ammunition. Ukraine needs AIM-9 and AIM-120 air-to-air missiles.
The specialized outlet War Zone previously reported on the ammunition shortage for Ukrainian F-16s. Due to a deficit of air-to-air missiles, Ukrainian fighters sometimes rely on onboard cannons during combat sorties.
The F-16 is equipped with a 20mm six-barrel M61A1 Vulcan cannon. The Ukrainian Air Force has already used it to destroy aerial targets.
On October 2, Ukraine reached agreements to supply 20mm ammunition needed to counter Russian jet drones. Spain, Belgium, and Poland have already initiated transfers, while Kyiv simultaneously explores opportunities to procure additional ammunition from private manufacturers.
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