In a significant development, Ukrainian pilots who are undergoing training on American F-16 fighter jets have now commenced their in-air training with instructors. This announcement was made by Yuriy Ignat, the official representative of the Ukrainian Air Force, as reported by TASS.
According to Ignat, “Pilots are already learning on the F-16s directly in the sky, although not all of them, of course.”
He further clarified that a portion of the pilots are undergoing in-air training with instructors on combat aircraft.
The training process for the pilots is progressing as planned, according to the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force. Ignat noted that NATO partners have expressed a desire to keep the training process discreet and not disclose further details.
Previously, Yuriy Ignat had mentioned that a training center for Ukrainian Air Force pilots on F-16 fighter jets is being prepared in Romania, and similar bases could be established within Ukraine’s territory.
The Pentagon had earlier stated that the training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 operations would take approximately five to six months.
NATO had previously outlined certain conditions for the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.
