Ukrainian Pilots Commence Training on F-16 Aircraft in the USA

At an airbase in Arizona, Ukrainian pilots have initiated their flight training on F-16 fighter jets. The U.S. Air Force, in a statement, noted that a "small number" of Ukrainian pilots began their instruction in "F-16 operations fundamentals" at the 162nd Wing of the U.S. National Guard. This was reported by the specialized publication Air & Space Forces Magazine.

"The training program will align with the foundational knowledge and skills of each pilot and is expected to span several months," stated a representative of the U.S. Air Force.

Typically, F-16 pilot training involves a significant amount of theoretical classes, simulator exercises, in addition to in-flight training. Foreign F-16 pilots also undergo English language training, which Ukrainian pilots initiated last month at Lakeland Air Base in Texas.

The standard F-16 training course usually spans approximately six months. However, American officials indicated that Ukrainian aviators are unlikely to follow the standard model, as the course will be tailored to Ukraine's needs in defending against Russian aircraft, drones, and missiles. Ukrainian pilots are expected to be combat-ready on F-16s no earlier than the beginning of 2024.

"For Ukraine, the training program is adapted precisely to what they need, which is versatility – operating both in the 'air-to-air' and 'air-to-ground' formats. We will teach them to carry out the full spectrum of versatile tasks that we can expect in their theoretical conflict," noted a U.S. Air Force representative.

The 162nd Wing conducts pilot training at the Morris Air National Guard Base, located at Tucson International Airport. This is the only U.S. Air Force unit that provides training for foreign pilots on F-16 aircraft as part of its routine activities. The wing has already trained pilots from over two dozen countries to operate F-16 fighters.

During the annual session of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Copenhagen, held in mid-September, Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced her country's intention to expand the coalition of nations providing military support to Ukraine in the form of Western F-16 fighters.

Frederiksen called on other NATO member countries to join this initiative and supply combat aircraft to Ukraine. She emphasized that as long as Ukrainian forces are ready to fight for their country's freedom, NATO member countries should demonstrate resolve and ensure that the transatlantic community remains supportive in the face of military aggression, offering assistance in resisting such conflicts in Ukraine.