The first group of Ukrainian pilots trained by the Royal Air Force are now learning to fly F-16 fighter jets in Denmark after completing their basic training program in the UK.
In August, the RAF began providing flight and English language training as part of the UK’s contribution to the international Air Force Capability Coalition (AFCCU), where allies and partners work together to strengthen Ukraine’s air capabilities.
The group consisted of six experienced Ukrainian fighter pilots who received specialized aviation English training to improve their ability to participate in coalition training and support.
A further ten Ukrainian trainee pilots took part in the language training and will remain in the UK to continue basic practical flight training and learn other skills such as aviation medicine and centrifugation or high-g training.
Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said: “I am proud of the RAF’s support for the next generation of Ukrainian fighter pilots and ground crew who will form the first line of defense in protecting Ukrainian airspace.” role after Putin’s full-scale invasion played in building Ukraine’s air defense and supplied hundreds of missiles and ammunition, as well as radars and weapons systems.
“Although Ukraine was very vulnerable to attack by Russian aircraft, drones and missiles in the early months of the invasion, with the support of the UK and our allies, the armed forces are now capable of intercepting much of the incoming munitions and killing civilians. and protect critical infrastructure.
“Together we will now move forward and ensure that in the future Ukraine will have a modern air force based on the highly capable fourth generation F-16 fighter jets. Combined with training from the world’s leading air forces, this is a significant improvement over Ukraine’s current Soviet-era capabilities.”
The goal of the program is to provide aspiring pilots with the skills needed to progress to the next stage of fighter training in partner countries, as well as to bring future Ukrainian pilots closer to a flying approach that meets NATO standards.
Pilots completing the basic flight training program undergo practical training in Grob Tutor aircraft with Royal Air Force instructors, learning general flying procedures, instrument flying, medium and low altitude navigation and formation flying. In addition to pilot training, dozens of Ukrainian aircraft technicians are also trained in English with an emphasis on technology.
Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said: “Ukraine attaches great importance to the pilot training that the UK and other partners are providing to help us prepare to send the F-16 to Ukraine.” pilots with the skills they need in the war against Russia.”
After completing their RAF training, pilots undergo advanced training in another European country. This prepares them for training on the F-16 Fighting Falcon, which is overseen by Denmark, the Netherlands and the United States, which heads the AFCCU.
The Prime Minister confirmed the UK’s intention to support the AFCCU with basic training earlier this year, as Britain does not have the F-16 aircraft that Ukraine has chosen to develop its future air force. The UK will continue to support Ukrainian pilots and ground crews into 2024.
The trainees will join more than 53,000 Ukrainians who have trained in the UK since Putin first ordered the invasion of Crimea in 2014. Last month Mr Shapps announced the UK would train a further 10,000 Ukrainian recruits in the first half of 2024 as part of Operation Interflex.
In addition to providing training programs, the UK continues to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia. As part of £4.6 billion in military aid, the UK has provided Ukraine’s armed forces with long-range missiles, Western battle tanks and logistical support.
Source: I News

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