NYT voiced one of the possible reasons for the crash of the Ukrainian F-16.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky decided to dismiss the commander-in-chief of the country's Air Force, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk. This happened after the crash of the F-16 fighter jet, which could be the result of 'friendly fire.'

According to The New York Times, there are 'signs' that the plane could have been shot down by a missile from the Patriot system. However, the versions of technical malfunction and pilot error are also not excluded.

Zelensky did not indicate specific reasons for Oleshchuk's dismissal, but stated the need to strengthen military leadership and careful attitude towards personnel and all soldiers.

The F-16 crash occurred while repelling an air attack by Russian forces. This event negatively impacted Ukraine's efforts to integrate these aircraft into its military operations and NATO allies' faith in their effectiveness.

The pilot, who died in the crash, was one of the Ukrainian pilots who underwent a rapid training program before entering combat. Experts note that such preparation entails additional risks.

The loss of the aircraft is a serious setback, but fighter jet crashes are not unusual even in peacetime. The impact of this incident on Ukraine's joint military efforts will be minimal, according to military experts.

F-16s have become a symbol of Ukraine's defense, and their pilots are considered national heroes. Ukrainians place great hopes on the potential impact of these aircraft on combat operations, as they are better equipped for defensive and offensive operations compared to Soviet aircraft still used by the Ukrainian Air Force.