Ukraine's Air Force Prepares to Take on Russia's Air Force with US-Made F-16s as Pilots Transition from Simulators to Real Combat Aircraft
Ukraine's Air Force is progressing in training its pilots to operate US-made F-16 fighter jets, bolstering their defenses against Russian air force. The pilots will soon transition from simulators to actual combat aircraft after undergoing extensive training, including international trips for further instruction. The F-16s will enhance Ukraine's capabilities in countering Russian drone attacks, defending strategic positions, and potentially engaging in air combat. However, the transfer and deployment of the F-16s require additional steps, including training on flying and maintaining the aircraft, which a coalition of 11 countries, led by the US, is providing to ensure success.
Ukraine's Air Force is making progress in transitioning its pilots from flight simulators to real combat aircraft, bringing the country closer to utilizing US-made F-16 fighter jets against Russia's air force. The initial cohort of F-16 pilots, currently undergoing simulator training, will soon transition to training and combat aircraft, according to Ukraine's Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat.
Several accounts and sources report that soon we may see F16's flying in Ukraine. Can I see Dutch F16's destroying the Russian army soon? Can I paint 'For MH17' on the missiles? pic.twitter.com/4QmPIRKp2C
— Robert van der Noordaa (@g900ap) October 22, 2023
The pilots have been training on simulators since late August, with some even traveling to the US and Denmark for additional training. The F-16s are a significant upgrade for Ukraine, enhancing their capabilities in defending against Russian drone attacks, targeting defensive positions, and potentially engaging in dogfights with Russian planes. However, the transfer of F-16s to Ukraine, expected in early 2024, requires further steps, including training on flying and maintaining the aircraft. A coalition of 11 countries, led by the US, is providing this comprehensive training to ensure successful deployment.