Ukrainian pilots' F-16 training delayed due to pending plan – CNN

CNN writes about it.

The article notes that the transfer of F-16-specific equipment, such as flight simulators and training manuals, needs approval. The US has yet to receive the complete training plan from Europe, delaying any official authorization.

Additionally, it's uncertain which countries will participate in the training program and provide F-16s to Ukraine once the training is complete. This step also requires separate approval from the US.

The US is considering sending American pilots to aid in the training, but their involvement depends on the final training plan's authorization.

Denmark and the Netherlands are among the countries expected to support the training initiative. Denmark's concept proposes a six-month training course for pilots and ground crew at several locations, including Denmark's Skrydstrup Fighter Base. The coalition supporting the training will contribute “language experts, pilots, ground crew, instructors, aircraft, or funding,” as needed. Ukrainian participants must meet specific language, health, and security criteria.

While Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren mentioned that the training is set to begin in Denmark in August, followed by a continuation in Romania, the Dutch Ministry of Defense has yet to provide updates.

Faster training timetable for Ukrainian pilots

The training is planned to be conducted in Denmark and Romania, the program is backed by 11 NATO countries. “But the details, including the dates, locations, and length of the syllabus “are still being worked out,” the article notes, quoting John Kirby, US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications. 

Earlier this year, the US Air Force designed a potential training plan based on observations of Ukrainian pilots flying F-16 simulators. The program is expected to take four to five months, focusing on skills essential for countering the Russian military. 

The number of Ukrainian pilots to be trained is still being decided, with a recommended pool of 10-12 participants. Language proficiency in English is a requirement, and the UK has offered to assist with the necessary language training.

US won't hold back F-16 training 

Ukraine has been advocating for F-16s to bolster its air defense and offensive capabilities, as the American jets have superior technology compared to the Soviet-era fleet.

According to CNN, US officials assure “that they won’t be an impediment to the F-16 training” and pledge not to hinder its progress. 

“The president has given a green light, and we will allow, permit, support, facilitate, and, in fact, provide the necessary tools for Ukrainians to begin being trained on F-16s as soon as the Europeans are prepared,” National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said. “The United States will not be the holdup in ensuring that this F-16 training can get under way.”