In a significant milestone, the first cohort of Ukrainian pilots, who received training from the Royal Air Force (RAF) in the United Kingdom, are now undergoing flight training to operate F-16 fighter jets in Denmark. This development follows their successful completion of a basic training program in the UK.
The RAF initiated flying and English language training for these Ukrainian pilots in August as part of the United Kingdom’s contribution to the international Air Force Capability Coalition for Ukraine. This coalition involves collaborative efforts by allies and partners to enhance Ukraine’s air capabilities.
The initial group consisted of six experienced Ukrainian combat fighter pilots who underwent specialized English language training tailored to aviation, improving their ability to engage effectively in coalition training and support operations.
Additionally, ten Ukrainian trainee pilots participated in the language training program in the UK. They remain in the UK to continue their practical basic flight training. This extended training includes essential skills acquisition in areas such as aviation medicine and centrifuge training.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps commented on this initiative, saying, “I am proud of the support the Royal Air Force is providing to the next generation of Ukraine’s combat air pilots and ground crew, who will be the first line of defence in protecting Ukraine’s skies.”
The United Kingdom has played a pivotal role in strengthening Ukraine’s air defences since the onset of Putin’s full-scale invasion. This support has included the provision of hundreds of missiles and munitions, radar systems, and weapons systems. Thanks to the assistance from the UK and its allies, Ukraine’s Armed Forces have significantly improved their capacity to intercept and neutralize incoming threats, thereby safeguarding their civilian population and critical infrastructure.
Furthermore, the UK is actively engaged in enhancing Ukraine’s future air force capabilities by introducing modern fourth-generation F-16 fighter jets. Coupled with training from the RAF, this represents a substantial advancement beyond Ukraine’s existing Soviet-era capabilities.
The training program aims to equip trainee pilots with the necessary skills to progress to the next phase of fighter jet training with partner nations. This approach aligns future Ukrainian pilots with a NATO-standard flying methodology.
Under the basic flight training program, trainee pilots are participating in practical lessons using Grob Tutor aircraft, guided by experienced RAF instructors. These lessons encompass general handling procedures, instrument flying, medium and low-level navigation, and formation flying.
In addition to pilot training, numerous Ukrainian aircraft technicians are undergoing English language training tailored to engineering disciplines.
Defence Minister of Ukraine, Rustem Umerov, expressed Ukraine’s appreciation for the training provided by the UK and other partner nations. He stated, “It is a rapid and effective program to equip Ukrainian pilots with the skills they need in the war against Russia.
Following their training with the RAF, these pilots will receive advanced flight training from another European nation. This will prepare them for operating the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, overseen by Denmark, the Netherlands, and the United States, who lead the Air Force Capability Coalition.
The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to support the Air Force Capability Coalition earlier this year by providing basic training. The UK does not operate the F-16 aircraft that Ukraine has selected for its future air force development.
This support for Ukrainian pilots and ground crew will continue into 2024, marking a continuation of the UK’s dedication to strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
To date, more than 53,000 Ukrainians have received training in the UK since Russia’s invasion of Crimea in 2014. Last month, the Defence Secretary announced plans to train an additional 10,000 Ukrainian recruits in the first half of 2024 under Operation Interflex.
In addition to training programs, the UK remains steadfast in its commitment to assist Ukraine in pushing back Russian forces. As part of the £4.6 billion worth of UK military support, long-range missiles, Western main battle tanks, and logistical assistance have been provided to Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
