This year, the United States will host a dedicated training program for twelve Ukrainian pilots who will learn to operate F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters on American soil. The update was reported by CNN.
The training timeline places completion between May and August, as confirmed by Capt. Erin Hannigan, a spokeswoman for the Arizona National Guard.
The twelve pilots are organized into three cohorts, each consisting of four trainees. The first group began their flight training in October of the previous year, the second began in January, and the third cohort is currently focused on English language instruction to ensure effective communication in high-stakes aviation operations.
Yuriy Ignat, the former Spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, noted that the Ukrainian military will not be able to sustain a large fleet of diverse Western aircraft without ongoing support for maintenance and parts.
In a February edition, Foreign Policy reported that the first F-16 jets could appear in Ukraine as early as June 2024, highlighting the rapid progression of Western security aid. The report reflected NATO discussions that set conditions for the transfer of F-16 aircraft, underscoring the careful coordination involved between alliance members and Kyiv.