The independent Ukrainian Air Force was officially established on March
17, 1992. It inherited 944 former Soviet aircraft, making it the second
largest air force in Europe. With a variety of exotic combat aircraft
types, including the last operational Yak-28s and Su-15s in the world,
the Ukrainian Air Force became of immediate interest to both aviation
enthusiasts and air defense analysts.
In the mid-2000s the country's aircraft repair plants inaugurated
upgrades to enhance the combat readiness of the aircraft and helicopters
of the force, however, financial problems still led to a decline in
combat strength. In 2014, when the territorial disputes on the Crimean
Peninsula became a full-scale war with pro-Russian separatists, the
Ukrainian Air Force had a fleet of 66 operational-ready planes in
service. These were used in interdiction and close air support missions
and during the war approximately 14 aircraft were lost.
This book provides a detailed look on the organization and combat
strength of the air force's aircraft and helicopters. Drawing on a wide
range of previously unseen photographs, supplemented by specially
commissioned color artworks, Guardians of Ukraine presents all types
of combat, transport and training aircraft, as well as helicopters
previously or currently operated by the Ukrainian Air Force. The
illustrations are supported by detailed captions many of which provide
individual aircraft histories.
