Come Back Alive, Ukrnafta Fund Mobile Support for F-16s in Ukraine
Ukraine’s Air Force has received its first mobile complexes for servicing F-16 fighter jets, developed by the charitable foundation Come Back Alive in partnership with Office 61 and with major funding from the state-owned company Ukrnafta, The Gaze reports.
The ₴51 million ($1.25 million) initiative includes two mobile maintenance units and a mission-planning center.
Unlike traditional stationary servicing centers, which are standard worldwide, these mobile units were designed in response to the risks posed by frequent Russian strikes on Ukrainian airfields.
They allow for rapid deployment, field repairs, and efficient mission prep — even after emergency landings or relocations — ensuring aircraft remain operational in combat conditions.
The planning complex serves as a mobile command unit with workstations and living quarters. The maintenance hub includes equipment for inspecting and preparing aviation munitions, along with vehicles for transport and logistics.
“We’re addressing two key needs: first, a mobile mission planning command center; second, preparation for the deployment of aviation weaponry,” explained Taras Chmut, Director of Come Back Alive.
“This is a unique technical solution, developed together with Ukraine’s defense industry and backed by Ukrnafta, based on real needs in a real war. We will continue to support this direction and, if needed, adapt our solutions for other aircraft Ukraine receives”
According to Office 61, these mobile hubs reflect the most pressing needs of Ukrainian Air Force technicians. The technology draws on best practices from NATO allies and offers a vital solution to Ukraine’s dispersed aircraft basing and personnel shortages.
Come Back Alive is Ukraine’s leading charitable foundation, active since 2014. The foundation has trained over 11,000 military personnel, including snipers, drone operators, and medics. Its public-facing branch it supports veterans and analyzes security policy to strengthen Ukraine’s long-term defense capability.
As of April 2024, Come Back Alive has raised over $385 million for Ukraine’s defense — setting a global standard in wartime civil-military support.