The initial cadre of Ukrainian pilots has completed its foundational training in the United Kingdom and is now advancing to specialized F-16 training with the French Air Force, marking a significant milestone in Ukraine’s quest to modernize its air force amidst ongoing Russian hostilities.
The first group, composed of ten pilots, underwent a rigorous training regimen in the UK that included basic flight instruction, ground school, and English language lessons to facilitate international communication. This was conducted under the auspices of the Air Capability Coalition, a joint initiative led by the United States, Denmark, the Netherlands, and the UK to enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
Following their UK training, the pilots moved to France, where they are currently engaged in advanced training on Alpha Jet advanced jet trainer aircraft. Pictures released by France’s General Staff of the Armed Forces show Ukrainian pilots being briefed by French instructors, underscoring the collaborative efforts to equip these pilots for the forthcoming F-16 operations. French Defense Minister has confirmed that the training commenced in April 2024, with the trainees learning the “basics of aerial combat” in preparation for the 45 F-16s expected to arrive in Ukraine by summer.
“The new Ukrainian aviators will undergo the same training as French pilots in half the time, using simulators and retired Alpha Jets. Following 80 flight hours in six months, the students will advance to F-16 piloting, either in the US or in a European country that operates these American aircraft.” BFMTV reported.
The comprehensive training program is not limited to pilots alone, it extends to maintenance specialists as well. Ukrainian F-16 maintenance specialists have completed their training in the Netherlands, focusing on various critical aspects such as helmet and oxygen systems, and emergency rescue kit assembly. The Netherlands has announced that it will start sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by fall, with the first batch of 18 aircraft expected by December, eventually totaling 42 fighters. Denmark is also poised to deliver F-16s within a few months.
Modernizing Ukraine’s air force with F-16 fighters is a critical component of its defense strategy, providing not only a potent counter to Russian aerial operations but also serving as a significant deterrent. The initiative also underscores the limitations of Ukraine’s current infrastructure and manpower, compelling the training to be conducted overseas to mitigate risks associated with Russian strikes on Ukrainian military facilities.
Relevant articles:
– Ukrainian F-16 pilots stand ready; an unknown number of pilots return, Bulgarian Military, 05/24/2024
– Ukrainian Pilots Currently Training On French Air Force Alpha Jet Trainers, The Aviationist, 05/21/2024
– Ukrainian F-16 maintenance specialists return after overseas training, Yahoo! Voices, 05/22/2024
– Ukrainian servicemen complete F-16 maintenance training in the Netherlands, Yahoo! Voices, 05/21/2024
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