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The U.S. expresses willingness to train Ukrainian pilots for F-16 aircraft operations, in conjunction with Europe’s efforts, to ensure smooth aircraft transfers.
The U.S. has indicated its preparedness to train Ukrainian F-16 pilots, further emphasizing the deepening defense ties between the two nations.
Following Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s communication with European counterparts, the U.S. expressed its intention to approve the third-party transfer of American-manufactured F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. Both Denmark and the Netherlands have pledged to contribute F-16s from their respective fleets to Ukraine.
Speaking to the media last Friday, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan revealed that the U.S. would grant its official nod to the aircraft transfer only after thorough congressional consultations and once the training of Ukrainian pilots for these aircrafts is completed.
Sabrina Singh, the Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary, further elaborated on the requirements needed for the U.S. to authorize this transfer during a recent Pentagon press briefing. “For the third-party transfer to materialize, certain prerequisites, including English language proficiency and ground logistics, must be fulfilled,” Singh explained. “Upon meeting these conditions, the U.S. will be poised to greenlight the transfer.”
Furthermore, Singh emphasized the U.S.’s readiness to join the training initiative for Ukrainian pilots. “Should European training capacities be exhausted, the U.S. stands ready to take up the mantle and provide training on American soil,” she stated.
Singh highlighted the importance of “intensive English-language training” for Ukrainian pilots, ensuring their readiness to operate the F-16s. The exact number of Ukrainian pilots requiring training remains undetermined, but as Singh noted, “It’s up to Ukraine to finalize the count of their pilots awaiting training. As of now, those figures are still pending.”
Source: US Dept. of Defense
