- February 9, 2026
- 6:09 pm
- Ukraine
On February 8, 2026, in the sky over the combat zone, a Ukrainian fighter jet executed an interception that the military describes as both risky and calculated. Ukraine used an F-16 against an Iranian-origin strike drone β without launching a missile, only using built-in weapons.
The footage quickly spread through professional communities and became a topic of discussion among military analysts.
How the interception took place
The target was a Shahed 136 type drone, used by Russia in attacks on infrastructure. The pilot closed the distance almost to visual contact and fired a short burst.
An explosion occurred immediately.
The device lost control and fell.
Why the missile was not used
A six-barrel M61 Vulcan 20 mm cannon was used. For a slow target, this is more effective in terms of cost-result ratio.
Missile reserves need to be conserved.
The attacks are serial in nature.
The role of the F-16 in the current defense system
The aircraft, transferred by NATO allies, have become a key element of air cover. According to estimates, they perform the lion’s share of tasks for intercepting cruise missiles and drones.
The intensity of sorties is high.
Crews regularly work on multiple targets in one sortie.
When the last argument comes into play
After expending missiles, pilots switch to the cannon option. This requires maximum precision and composure.
The risk increases.
But the ammunition is preserved for the next waves.
Such episodes are closely monitored outside Ukraine as well. The audience reading NAnews β Israel News | Nikk.Agency, sees how resource conservation gradually forms a new tactical norm of modern warfare.
The scale of launches remains serious
Strikes are repeated regularly, drones are directed at cities and energy facilities. The pressure on the air defense system does not decrease.
Each successful interception becomes not just news, but an element of accumulated experience.
What methods are added to aviation
Ukrainian military simultaneously use helicopters and light aircraft with machine gun armament. This allows expanding the reaction zone, especially at low altitudes.
The combination of means increases the chances.
And at the same time shows the limits of classical counteraction schemes.
As the intensity of attacks grows, such videos are almost certain to appear again. And each new case will be carefully studied β in headquarters, governments, and the expert community.
