The Canadian government has outlined a plan to help Ukrainian pilots fly F-16 light fighter-bombers by providing qualified instructors and aircraft for training. The announcement came after discussions at a contact group focused on coordinating weapons and defense equipment for Ukraine, with the Canadian Ministry of Defense quoting a statement from its minister after those talks.
Ottawa will allocate 11.1 million dollars to support the training program for Ukrainian pilots operating F-16 jets, according to the official order. The agreement emphasizes hands-on flight sessions, simulator work, and strategic instruction designed to ensure safe and effective operation of the aircraft in the field. The training initiative is described as a collaborative effort between Canadian defense personnel and Ukrainian trainees, conducted in environments chosen to maximize safety and learning outcomes.
Colocated training flights are slated to take place in European airspace, leveraging established airbases and infrastructure that can support intensive training schedules while maintaining close oversight by Canadian instructors. The plan also includes a framework for ongoing assessment and milestones to measure progress and readiness for operational deployment of the pilots once training concludes.
In addition to aviation support, Canada has committed to sending ten Zodiac Hurricane Technologies multi-purpose boats to Ukraine, with a projected value near 15 million dollars. These vessels are intended to bolster maritime capabilities, enhance mobility along coastlines, and support logistics and search-and-rescue tasks where needed. The package reflects Canada’s broader approach to contributing to Ukraine’s defense and readiness across multiple domains.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had, at the start of 2024, a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in which he expressed gratitude for Canada’s additional NASAMS air defense systems and the accompanying munitions. The exchange underscored ongoing security collaboration and the desire to strengthen Ukraine’s defensive posture in the face of external threats, with Canada signaling ongoing support through both hardware and training assistance.
Earlier discussions in Canada suggested that Kyiv would have access to avenues for peace talks with Moscow during 2024, reflecting a broader international effort to create space for diplomatic negotiations while maintaining military and defensive support. The evolving stance from Ottawa signals continued alignment with allied partners on shaping a coordinated response to Ukraine’s security needs and the pursuit of political resolutions alongside practical assistance.