A Ukrainian MiG-29 fighter jet was lost on Thursday, resulting in the death of its pilot, Captain Marat Mambetov, aged 25. Mambetov successfully ejected after his jet was struck by a Russian missile during a mission, but unfortunately did not survive. This marks the 37th confirmed loss of a Ukrainian MiG-29 since February 2022, severely impacting Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. The loss is particularly concerning as Ukraine relies on these jets to protect its cities. Currently, Ukraine has approximately three dozen MiG-29s remaining, mirroring the size of its fleet prior to the full-scale Russian invasion. The dwindling number raises questions about Ukraine’s ability to maintain air defense in the face of continued Russian aggression.