On the way to F-16: NATO shows how Ukrainian pilots train in Denmark (video)
NATO shows how Ukrainian pilots are preparing to fly F-16 fighter jets in Denmark.
The video of the training was published on NATO’s official YouTube page.
In the video, a Ukrainian pilot with the call sign Moonfish also shared his impressions of the aircraft and assessed its flight capabilities. He is one of the few Ukrainian pilots who are currently honing their skills on F-16s that will soon be handed over to Ukraine. According to him, the aircraft has excellent handling and a powerful engine, which makes it possible to perform fast maneuvers. In addition to the pilots themselves, training and exercises are conducted with the technical staff who have to maintain the aircraft at the airfields and prepare them for flights.
In early March 2024, it was reported that two groups of Ukrainian pilots were being trained on F-16 fighter jets in Denmark and the United States. The initial stage of familiarization with these aircraft will allow pilots to start flying independently to improve their piloting skills and use of weapons.
Currently, NATO provides comprehensive training for Ukrainian pilots who begin their studies in the United Kingdom, where cadets practice their initial flight training on simulators and training aircraft.
Ukraine is expected to receive its first F-16 fighters in the summer of 2024, and by that time the pilots should have completed their training to fly them.
As a reminder, the Belgian Council of Ministers has decided to send the first F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in 2024.
According to the plan, the fighter jets were to be delivered no earlier than 2025, but as the country sees Ukraine’s urgent need for these aircraft, the delivery date was revised. The Danish government also announced the transfer of F-16 fighters in the summer of 2024.
