Ukrainian Air Force reveals how it will train pilots on F-16 jets while still protecting Ukrainian skies
It is a challenge to train a significant number of pilots simultaneously because of the intense demands required by Ukraine’s Air Forces against the enemy.
“We must remain engaged in combat here, but it is equally vital to enhance our training capabilities abroad. As a result, we have devised a rotational training program that will send pilots in waves. The first wave is expected to include several dozen highly skilled pilots,” Ihnat said.
Priority will be given to the most experienced and proficient pilots, particularly those who possess a strong command of the English language.“We intend to select the most accomplished pilots to kickstart the training process. Additionally, we will prioritize young pilots who can eventually serve as mentors for their colleagues,” added Ihnat.
As Western aircraft deliveries progress, training programs for engineers and combat control officers will also be initiated.
Earlier reports indicated that approximately 20 Ukrainian pilots will begin their F-16 training in the United Kingdom.
The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced on May 19 that his country, in collaboration with the United States, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark, had agreed to participate in training Ukrainian pilots on Western fighter jets. The United Kingdom is set to start the training program this summer. U.S. President Joe Biden supported the decision for joint exercises, reported CNN.
Allied nations will work together in the coming months to determine the timing, quantity, and recipients of the aircraft to be transferred to Ukraine, the White House confirmed.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense is optimistic that the F-16 jets will arrive in Ukraine this autumn.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed his commitment to expedite the delivery of the fighter jets, though he refrained from specifying the exact number or timeline.
Kyiv hopes to receive between 40 and 50 F-16 jets to establish three to four squadrons, said Yuriy Sak, an advisor to the Minister of Defense.
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