Ukrainian Falcons



The Ukrainian Falcons ('Українські Соколи', Ukrayins’ki Sokoly) is the aerobatic demonstration team of the Ukrainian Air Force. It was established in 1997 as a team of 6 MiG-29s (5 MiG-29 9-13s and 1 MiG-29UB).

The Ukrainian Falcons represents the elite of the Ukrainian Air Force's fighter pilots. This team is commanded by Colonel V. Rososhansky (Test Pilot First Class). Also members of the team are Colonels Korolyov and Dudkin, Lieutenant Colonels Kovolyov and Vecherinsky, Majors Sotnikov, Ovchinnikov and Lieutenant Colonel Nickolay Mekhed. The “Falcons” are based at the Kirovs’ke Air Base (Kirovs’ke raion, Eastern Crimea).

Ukrainian Falcons member Lt. Col. Volodymyr Toponar was the chief pilot of the Sukhoi Su-27 that crashed during the Sknyliv airshow disaster (survived with injuries). He was found guilty of causing the crash and was sentenced to 14 years in prison.