US to Train Ukrainian Pilots to Fly F-16 Jets
In a recent announcement, the United States revealed plans to begin training Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16 jets in October. The training program is part of an effort to support Ukraine in its fight for security and freedom.
The announcement was made by Pentagon Spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder during a press briefing. He stated, “Following English language training for pilots in September, F-16 flying training is expected to begin in October at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, facilitated by the Air National Guard’s 162nd Wing.”
While specific numbers were not provided, it is anticipated that several pilots and dozens of maintainers will participate in the training. Ukraine has put forward a list of approximately 32 pilots who are ready to begin training on F-16 fighter jets. However, many of them lack a strong command of the English language, which is a necessary requirement since the jets’ instrumentation and manuals are all in English.
The Ukrainian pilots, along with personnel who will receive training on maintaining the aircraft, could arrive in the US as soon as next month. Once the language instruction is complete, they will be able to begin their training on the F-16s. The duration of the training is still unknown, as the pilots have previous experience flying Soviet-era MIG and Sukhoi fighters.
The decision to train Ukrainian pilots on the F-16 jets was made preemptively, recognizing that training capacity in Europe would eventually be reached, according to Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder. The US wants to assist Ukraine’s efforts as quickly as possible.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, home to the 162nd Wing, will host the training program. The base has previously evaluated Ukrainian fighter pilots and found them to have above-average abilities in several areas. The unit has trained pilots from 25 different countries to fly the F-16.
Denmark and the Netherlands, the leading countries in the coalition to train Ukrainian pilots, have also committed to sending aircraft to Ukraine. Denmark will send 19 F-16 fighter jets, while the Netherlands is expected to provide 42 F-16s. Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov stated that Ukrainian pilots and technical crews have already begun training on the jets, with a minimum training period of six months.
The spokesman for Ukraine’s Air Force expressed the importance of the F-16s, stating that they can “change the course of events” and provide air superiority in the occupied territories.
The United States has reiterated its commitment to standing with Ukraine and supporting its fight for freedom and security on multiple occasions. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said, “The US will continue to ensure that Ukraine has what it needs to fight for its freedom.” The Biden administration has pledged to support Ukraine for as long as necessary.