Ukraine deploys F‑16 decoy strategy to outsmart adversaries
Ukrainians are creating their own decoy models of F-16 fighters to confuse the enemy. Available information indicates that a private Ukrainian company is responsible for their production. The introduction of such solutions on the battlefield causes the opponent to waste ammunition on destroying a dummy target, leading to the depletion of their resources.
Photos published on social media show F-16 fighter models produced in Ukraine. They closely resemble the originals, are of similar size, and have Ukrainian markings. It is possible that they are also equipped with heaters and metal elements or components coated with metallic paint, designed to generate a thermal and radar signature similar to that of a real F-16, in order to deceive enemy thermal cameras and radar systems.
F-16 that pretend to be originals
Analysis of previously published social media photos and videos suggests that the Ukrainian organization "Apate," which has supported the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the past, is behind the production of the decoys. The organization has supplied the military with various models of military equipment, including these F-16 fighter decoys. Photos published in mid-2024 show the same production hall as the latest photographs.
The decoys are meant to protect the real F-16 fighters that Ukraine received from Western allies. It is important to note that the Netherlands, Denmark, Belgium, and Norway committed to delivering over 60 F-16 fighters in total. Most of these aircraft are A/AM versions, which underwent appropriate upgrades before being delivered. By the end of 2024, Ukraine received approximately 20 fighters. At the beginning of 2025, more F-16s were delivered to the country by the Netherlands. However, it is not known how many arrived in Ukraine.
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is an American multirole fighter jet that has been the backbone of the air forces of many countries for decades. Designed in the 1970s, it has gained a reputation as a reliable and versatile combat aircraft. Its maximum speed is approximately 2,400 km/h, and its combat range extends to about 550 km. This aircraft can operate at altitudes up to about 15,000 metres.
The F-16 is capable of carrying up to 7,700 kg of combat load. It is equipped with various air-to-air missiles, such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder or AIM-120 AMRAAM, as well as air-to-ground missiles, and both guided and unguided bombs. This allows it to effectively carry out missions against both aerial and ground targets.
