Prague Approves F-16 Training Programme for Ukrainian Pilots
The Czech government has officially greenlit a new training initiative for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, underscoring its continued commitment to supporting Ukraine.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Radio Prague International.
Acting on a proposal by Defense Minister Jana Černochová, the Cabinet approved the plan, which will see eight Ukrainian pilots undergo flight training facilitated by the state-owned aviation enterprise LOM Praha.
The program, scheduled to run through the end of 2026, will provide each pilot with approximately 150 hours of flight instruction.
While the Czech Air Force does not operate F-16 aircraft, the training will be conducted using advanced flight simulators and L-39 Albatros jet trainers, which are part of the facilities at LOM Praha’s aviation training center.
The curriculum is designed to prepare Ukrainian pilots for the real-life operation of F-16s once the aircraft are fully delivered to Ukraine by Western allies.
“This is not just a professional challenge, but a demonstration of active solidarity,” stated Jiří Protiva, Director of LOM Praha. “We have the capacity, knowledge, and experience, and we are ready to offer it where it truly matters.”
The entire cost of the training, estimated at $1.4 mn, will be fully covered by the Czech Ministry of Defence from its existing defense budget. The training will be provided at no cost to Ukraine.
Minister Černochová emphasized that military hardware alone is not enough to ensure Ukraine’s long-term resilience. “To defend itself effectively, Ukraine needs not only military hardware, but also well-trained armed forces, including air force personnel. As a committed member of the international Coalition of the Willing, the Czech Republic recognizes its responsibility,” she said.
In parallel developments, the Netherlands and Romania have announced plans to establish a joint center for training Ukrainian F-16 technical personnel.
As The Gaze reported earlier, during a two-day official visit to the Czech Republic on May 3-4, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Czech President Petr Pavel announced a series of joint initiatives aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities