Several groups of Ukrainian pilots are being trained in different countries to fly F-16s. Two advanced groups located in Denmark and the United States are already honing their skills on F-16s. This was announced by the spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force Command, Ilya Yevlash, during a telethon, UNN reports.
When asked at what stage the F-16 pilots are in training, Yevlash answered:
We have several groups undergoing training in different countries. Right now, we have two advanced groups in Denmark and the United States. There they are directly honing their skills on F-16 aircraft. Another group is continuing its training and has moved from the UK to France, where they are already flying and mastering light aircraft.
He also said that one group is undergoing ground training in England and learning the language.
In addition, Mr. Yevlash said that technical staff is being trained so that these specialists can train their colleagues in Ukraine.
Addendum
Ukraine is preparing and adapting airfields to receive F-16s.
The New York Times reported that by this summer , 12 Ukrainian pilots will be ready to fly F-16 fighter jets after 10 months of training in Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the United States. However, by the time the pilots return, only six F-16s out of an estimated 45 fighter jets will have been delivered to Ukraine.
The Netherlands plans to prepare six additional F-16 fighters for Ukraine. This will bring the total number of F-16s to 24. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed hope that Ukraine will be able to receive Danish F-16 fighters before the summer.