The first group of Ukrainian pilots trained in Great Britain is now learning to fly F-16 fighter jets in Denmark. The training was completed by six combat fighter pilots who were trained in English for pilots.
This was reported by the British government.
In August, the British Air Force began training in flying skills and the English language. Currently, another ten Ukrainian pilots remain in Great Britain to continue practical basic flight training, as well as to master aviation medicine and prepare to work on centrifuges. In addition to pilot training, dozens of Ukrainian aviation technicians also teach engineering-oriented English.
Pilots undergoing basic flight training practice in Grob Tutor aircraft, learning general handling procedures, medium and low level navigation, and formation flying. After completing training in Britain, pilots will undergo training in another European country to improve their flying skills.
The program was designed so that Ukrainian pilots would acquire the skills necessary to move to the next stage of training on fighter jets in partner countries — this would bring Ukrainian pilots closer to NATO flight standards.
Great Britain will continue to support Ukrainian pilots in 2024.
- Four countries have agreed to transfer F-16 fighters to Ukraine — Denmark (19 aircraft), the Netherlands (42 vehicles, some of which are training), Norway (the number is not announced) and Belgium (the transfer of several units has been announced). Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel are already undergoing training in Denmark, Great Britain and the USA. France, Belgium and Canada also agreed to participate in the preparation. An educational center for the training of F-16 pilots was opened in Romania, where Ukrainians will also study.
- It is expected that experienced Ukrainian pilots will be able to complete training on the F-16 in three months. In September of this year, The Wall Street Journal wrote that Ukrainian pilots could start using the F-16 in combat as early as February 2024, that is, this winter — provided there are no delays in deliveries.