Eight Ukrainian pilots prepare for training on F-16 combat aircraft
According to recent reports, Ukraine has taken an important step in boosting its military power: the first group of pilots is ready to undergo training on American F-16 military aircraft. The exercise is intended to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deter additional aggressive actions by Russia, Politico writes.
Eight pilots with sufficient English language skills have already been identified to participate in the program. In addition, 20 other pilots are ready to improve their English language skills in the UK. A total of 32 pilots can be involved in this training program.
It is not yet known when these exercises will begin. The Europeans, along with the United States, are still approving the training program. Meanwhile, Ukrainian pilots with insufficient English will start an English learning program in the UK this month.
In terms of international support, the NATO alliance will assist Ukraine in mastering these advanced American aircraft. It is planned that the bulk of the exercises will take place in Denmark and Romania.
The United States emphasizes the importance of this cooperation, stressing that the F-16s are designed for long-term defense of Ukraine. For its part, the Ukrainian leadership gives guarantees that the aircraft will not be used for aggressive actions against Russia.
In recent days, incidents in the region have also been reported: Ukrainian drones attacked a Russian ship near Novorossiysk and a civilian ship carrying fuel for Syria. Additionally, several drone attacks were reported in Moscow. The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasized that military operations are returning to the territory of Russia, where they belong. As the saying goes, “you reap what you sow.”
Currently, Ukraine has no means and no air superiority, as it lacks any modern aviation. The F-16s are very much needed, as they will protect Ukrainian skies from constant shelling, and will push Russian air forces further away from the front line, so that frontline cities will not suffer from constant bombardment.
