Maksym Ustymenko, the F‑16 pilot shot down by Russia, awarded Hero of Ukraine title
Maksym Ustymenko: A Hero Heritage in Ukraine Air Force
Maksym Ustymenko, a deaned Ukrainian F-16 pilot, seized Russia’s largest missile and drone attack after his death and became the hero of Ukraine. F-16 died after being shot by Russia and tried to prevent the plane from hitting a populated area.
War veteran and first -class aviator
Born in 1993, Maksym Yuriiovych Ustymenko graduated from the National Air Force University of Ivan Kozhedub and has been working in Ukraine Air Force since the early days of Ukraine’s Anti -Terrorism Operation (ATO). Ustymenko became one of the most talented military ways of Ukraine.
It was certified in four types of aircraft and was recognized for its extraordinary flight skills and task sensitivity. His colleagues saw him as one of the best tactical pilots in Ukraine’s defense forces.
The last task during the largest Russian air strike
On the night of June 28-29, 2025, Russia started 537 air weapons against Ukraine, 477 drones and 60 missiles, with the authorities to date as the most intense air strike of the war. Ustymenko began at F-16 Fighting Falcon, one of the few recently delivered by NATO allies.
According to the Ukraine Air Force, Ustymenko successfully neutralized the threat of seven Russian air. The plane was shot during the engagement with the final target. In his last moments, the unsuccessful jet moved away from the settlements and died in an accident before it collapsed. The Air Force described their actions as “hero, and died like a hero.”
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National mourning and recognition
Mayor Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the award after his death and death during the address of June 29: “It is painful to lose such people. His condolences to his family, relatives, friends and comrades.” After his death, Ustymenko was promoted to the rank of Colonel and ordered the “Golden Star”.
The death of Ustymenko has been the loss of the fourth Ukraine F-16 since the deployment of February 2024. Previous F-16 losses include pilots Pavlo Ivanov and others in April and May. His sacrifice is followed by his classmate Andrii, who died in 2022. He survived by a four -year -old son. The widow’s wife expressed gratitude for the words, courage and permanent heritage shared by the wife of Pilot Oleksiy “Moonfish” Mes.
The growing role of F-16 pilots in Ukraine’s defense
The use of American-made F-16s played a critical role in Ukraine’s air defense strategy and significantly improved Russian drones and ability to cut missiles. During the June 29 attack, Ukraine lowered 436 drones and 38 missiles, F-16 pilots such as Ustymenko are at the forefront. This climb in the air war intensified global debates about advanced support to Ukraine. Authorities warn that the scale and sophistication of the latest Russian attacks show the need for air defense capabilities.
President Zelenskyy emphasized that the pressure on Russia and more international aid is critical: “Putin decided to continue the war a long time ago. This war should be terminated.”
