The exact details of how Ukraine is holding back the Russian air force are shrouded in secrecy, but it is said to be based on “unique” tactics and high-risk missions. Ukraine has also benefited from a mix of old air defense weapons, such as S-300 units, and Turkish Bayraktar TB-2 drones, as well as US-supplied Stinger anti-aircraft missiles. “Russian pilots are flying more modern jets and are capable of launching missiles at much greater distances,” Andriy told CNN. “For example, to prevent missiles fired at a distance of 80 kilometers, we must approach them at 40 kilometers. “If they have already fired a rocket at us, we must somehow stop it along the way.” Intensive training by NATO allies, especially the United States, also seems to be a factor. A report in Coffee or Die magazine reported that Ukrainian pilots had often been trained with the California Air Force’s aircraft wing.
