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In a proactive move to bolster Ukraine’s defense mechanism, the U.S. has scheduled an extensive F-16 pilot training program starting this October at the Morris Air National Guard Base located in Tucson, Arizona. This training will be spearheaded by the 162nd Wing of the Air National Guard.
This training initiative is a pivotal part of the U.S.-endorsed international commitment aimed at amplifying and ensuring Ukraine’s long-term defense capabilities. As Col. Ryder elucidated, this move aligns with the overarching vision of fortifying Ukraine’s defenses against potential threats.
Highlighting international collaboration, the Netherlands and Denmark have also stepped up, pledging to provide Ukraine with F-16 aircraft from their respective fleets.
Last week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed the country’s inclination to greenlight the transfer of these U.S.-manufactured F-16s to Ukraine. This gesture was communicated via a letter addressed to European leaders.
Adding more depth to this cooperation, Ryder noted, “The training championed by the U.S. will enrich the existing F-16 pilot and maintenance training in Europe. We’re wholeheartedly supporting the F-16 training alliance helmed by Denmark and the Netherlands. Our focus remains on maintaining a harmonized approach with our European allies, especially the Dutch and Danes.”
By revealing these training plans, Ryder emphasized that the U.S. aims to proactively offset any training bottlenecks in Denmark and the Netherlands. The end goal is to ensure Ukraine gets the necessary aircraft support in the shortest possible timeframe.
Ukraine will have the autonomy to decide on the exact number of pilots to undergo this specialized training.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in a recent briefing, highlighted that the U.S. would give its nod for the aircraft transfer only post consulting Congress and after the Ukrainian pilots have completed their training.
The training duration varies based on the expertise of the pilots. For rookies, the entire training module, which encompasses lessons from basic flying to intricate combat techniques, will span around eight months. Veterans can expect to wrap up in approximately five months.
However, the training isn’t solely for pilots. The F-16s demand substantial logistics and maintenance training. Ground personnel will be intensively trained to ensure the aircraft remain battle-ready at all times.
Furthermore, to bridge any communication gaps, pilots will undergo a language enhancement program at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, starting in September. This will guarantee pilots can understand the specialized English required to operate the aircraft efficiently.
This proactive measure by the U.S. reiterates the country’s unwavering support for Ukraine, especially in the face of Russia’s unexpected aggressive stance. On Ukraine’s 32nd independence anniversary, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III saluted Ukraine’s spirit. “Ukraine’s courage has captivated the world. As they mark another year of freedom, our support remains resolute. We stand by Ukraine in its pursuit of security and liberty,” Austin affirmed.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Defense
