Zelenskyy unveils video of Ukrainian pilots training on F-16s in Denmark

Training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16 in Denmark

Read also: Ukrainian pilots to complete F-16 fighter jet training in the U.S. by summer 2024

The clip showcases aircraft servicing and takeoffs.

"Our combat experience is truly invaluable, but still, this is a very condensed training program,” pilot Moonfish said.

“I believe our biggest motivation is not our prior experience itself, but rather the drive to return [to Ukraine] and keep fighting. The F-16 is a superb aircraft from a pilot's perspective."

Read also: F-16 Coalition working to increase the number of F-16 fighter jets provided to Ukraine

The F-16s are more maneuverable than other jets, encouraging a more aggressive approach, he added.

Read also: US approves Denmark and the Netherlands transferring F-16s to Ukraine — report

Ukraine initially found the technology unclear and challenging to integrate, having previously lacked access to such advanced modern systems, technical specialist Ihor explained.

Once the technology is understood, it "greatly simplifies the work," he said.

Ukrainian pilots are currently training to fly F-16s in partner countries.

Denmark confirmed on Feb. 22 that it would transfer its first F-16 fighters to Ukraine this summer. Copenhagen will also provide Kyiv with all its artillery and announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, including drones, ammunition, and anti-aircraft missiles.

NV

Read also: Ukraine's potential F-16 use includes hitting targets in Russia – Stoltenberg

The Netherlands and Denmark jointly pledged in August 2023 to transfer 61 American F-16 fighters to Ukraine after receiving approval from the United States.

Belgium intends to transfer F-16s to Ukraine, but not until 2025, while Norway has confirmed it will supply F-16s in the near future.

The Netherlands announced plans to begin training Ukrainian pilots on the first batch of 18 aircraft in Dec. 2023, with intentions to later increase the number to 24 fighters. In total, the Netherlands has pledged to provide Kyiv with 42 aircraft.

Read also: France to begin training Ukrainian pilots in early 2024

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

Section: Nation

Author: Alla Shcherbak