The training of Ukrainian pilots who will master the American F-16 fighter jets will kick off in August and take at least six months, said the Ukrainian Minister of Defense, Oleksii Reznikov.
That’s according to the minister’s interview with CNN, Ukrinform reports.
Ukraine also needs to create the proper infrastructure for the said warplanes. According to Reznikov’s optimistic forecast, pilots will be able to fly the F-16 as early as next spring.
Reznikov emphasized that, if Ukraine had these fighters now, they would certainly help make more progress in the counteroffensive.
The training, which Reznikov says will apparently take place in Denmark and the Netherlands and possibly the UK or Poland, will also include intensive training for technical staff. The Minister of Defense noted that aircraft maintenance is a “serious task.”
He noted that the training may be split between countries, but the final plans are still being finalized.
Reznikov jokingly added that the group of eleven countries that have committed to help Ukraine in training pilots is called “Ocean’s 11” after the popular film.
Source: Ukrainian pilots to start training on F-16s as early as August - Reznikov
