Depending on the pilots' level of training, the course can last from five to eight months. The Pentagon expects Ukrainian pilots to be able to fly the F-16 by the end of 2024.
Ukrainians learn to fly F-16 in the US
Ukrainian pilots in the United States, who are undergoing training on the F-16 fighter jet, are expected to complete it by the end of 2024.
This was announced by the Pentagon Press Secretary and United States Air Force major general, Patrick Ryder.
The general also said that a group of Ukrainian pilots are currently continuing their flight training at an air base in Arizona.
As you know, depending on the level of training of the pilots, the training can last from five to eight months. Therefore, I expect these pilots to complete their training sometime before the end of the year, but I cannot give a more specific timeframe, Gen Ryder said.
Prior to that, a small group of Ukrainian pilots who arrived in the US in September received language training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas.
In Arizona, the Ukrainians will first learn the basics of F-16 operation in the classroom and on simulators, and then move on to flying real aircraft. The course may be accelerated due to the need for Ukrainians to return to participate in combat operations at home.
In addition to the United States, Ukrainian pilots are or will be trained in Romania, Denmark, France and the United Kingdom. Last year, before Christmas, six Ukrainians completed their basic training, including English language training.
Basic training of first Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s has ended in Britain
As the British government reminds us, training for Ukrainian pilots began in August 2023.
As of December, six experienced Ukrainian pilots have successfully completed the course.
In addition, it is emphasised that ten more trainee pilots are continuing their basic flight training, aviation medicine and centrifuge training in the UK.
The head of the UK Ministry of Defence, Grant Shapps, has already made an official statement on this issue.
I am proud of the support the British air force is giving to the next generation of Ukrainian fighter pilots and ground crews who will be the first line of defence in protecting Ukraine's skies, he said.
