Ukraine’s Air Force demonstrates its first full-fledged F-16 trainer

He reported this on Telegram.

According to Oleshchuk, the main module of the simulator is already being tested and prepared for operation by Ukrainian specialists.

The next step is to install the hydraulics and cockpit so that the pilots can feel the realism of the training flight.

The Air Force commander thanked everyone who helps Ukraine strengthen its aviation component and noted that in addition to the aircraft themselves, it is important to create a powerful training and material base for Ukrainian pilots.

"I am grateful to everyone who helps Ukraine strengthen its aviation component. Of course, in addition to the F-16s themselves, we need to create a powerful training and material base for our youth. I urge our allies to join this initiative," the Air Force Commander emphasized.

Oleksandr Diakiv, representative of the Air Force Training Command of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, said, "This is not a simulator, it is a full-fledged aviation exercise machine with a real F-16 cockpit. The pilot can clearly feel where the controls are located, what he sees in flight, and what signals are transmitted."

On the trainer, the maintenance specialists perform takeoff, route, targeting, and weapon use. 

Before that, Ukraine had virtual simulators of the types of aircraft that Ukrainian pilots are now mastering. 

A representative of the Czech company that provided the simulator said he was very happy to help Ukraine. He noted that Czech specialists had already been to Ukraine and trained the first 5 specialists who will now instruct Ukrainian pilots on how to use the simulator.

• Danish Ambassador to Ukraine Ole Egberg Mikkelsen said that Denmark will send Ukraine the promised F-16 fighter jets in the summer of 2024.
• Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren said that the country plans to start sending F-16 fighters to Ukraine in the fall.