200 Ukrainian pilots received basic training in UK before flying F-16s – UK Embassy

KATERYNA TYSHCHENKO — Wednesday, 1 January 2025, 20:07

Two hundred Ukrainian pilots have completed basic training in the UK prior to flying F-16 fighter jets.

Source: UK Embassy in Ukraine

Quote: "200 Ukrainian aviators received basic flying, ground school and language training in the UK before flying F-16s.

RAF instructors taught them general aircraft handling, flying by the aircraft’s instruments, low level navigation and advanced formation flying."

Background:

  • In June 2023, British Ambassador to Ukraine Melinda Simmons said the UK would provide Ukrainian pilots with basic training, despite not having F-16s in service.
  • Simmons said the training would enable Ukrainian pilots to be more combat-ready in a shorter period of time.

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