US to Approve Transfer of F-16 Fighter Jets for Ukraine After Training Completion
The United States has committed to approving the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine once the training of Ukrainian pilots is complete, according to a US official. The plan is to ensure that Ukraine receives the fighter jets it has long sought as soon as its pilots finish training on the F-16.
Denmark and the Netherlands have taken the lead in preparing a program to train Ukrainian pilots on the American jet, but the US is still working with other countries to determine who will provide F-16s to the Ukrainian Air Force.
On Friday, the US approved the transfer of F-16 instructional materials from Denmark to Ukraine. This approval allows the Danish defense ministry to proceed with their efforts to establish pilot and maintenance training programs. The materials include training modules, documentation, and classroom training materials, which contain sensitive US technology information.
The approval of the third-party transfer request from Denmark was a crucial step before Ukrainian fighter pilots could begin training on the fourth-generation jets they have been requesting for months. Ukrainian pilots are set to begin training on F-16 jets later this month as part of a coalition of 11 countries involved in the training program.
To demonstrate ongoing support for the program, Secretary of State Antony Blinken sent letters to his counterparts in Denmark and the Netherlands, assuring them of the Biden administration’s full support. Blinken stated that the transfer of the jets would be expedited once training on the advanced aircraft is completed.
A one-page training concept from the Danish Ministry of Defense outlined a six-month plan to prepare pilots and ground crews for operating the fighter jet. However, the US has yet to receive a formal training plan to familiarize and prepare Ukrainian pilots for the fourth-generation fighter jet. As the F-16 is an American aircraft carrying sensitive technology, the US needs to approve the transfer of training materials, simulators, and manuals.
National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby emphasized the importance of training in the process and the need to ensure sufficient pilots with proper English proficiency before commencing training. Kirby expressed optimism that training would begin soon.
Despite the progress, Ukraine stated on Wednesday that it does not expect to receive F-16s until next year. Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat acknowledged that defending Ukraine with F-16s during the fall and winter would not be possible.
The commander of US Air Forces in Europe and Africa confirmed that Ukrainian pilots participating in the F-16 training program are receiving language instruction in the UK to familiarize themselves with the English-language materials and instruments in the jet. The pilots will also undergo additional training on propeller aircraft before flying in the Alpha jet in France. However, the commander noted that it would take time, and F-16s are not expected to arrive in Ukraine until next year.
The Ukrainian pilots involved in the F-16 training program are younger pilots with limited flight hours and are not currently participating in the war.
CNN’s Jennifer Hansler contributed to this report.
What role do other countries play in determining the best options for providing fighter jets to the Ukrainian Air Force in partnership with the US
Rparts in Denmark and the Netherlands, expressing gratitude for their collaboration and efforts in training Ukrainian pilots on the F-16. Blinken emphasized the importance of the program in enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deterring further aggression.
The transfer of F-16 fighter jets has been a long-standing aspiration for Ukraine, as it seeks to modernize its Air Force and strengthen its defense against Russia. The US, along with its allies, has been working closely with Ukraine to provide the necessary training and support.
The US commitment to approving the transfer of F-16 fighter jets demonstrates its continued support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. By facilitating the training process and ensuring the transfer of the jets, the US aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and deter potential aggression.
It is worth noting that the approval of the transfer request from Denmark is a significant milestone, allowing Ukrainian fighter pilots to begin training on the advanced jets they have been eagerly awaiting. This training program, involving multiple countries, highlights the international community’s solidarity in assisting Ukraine in its defense efforts.
As Ukraine’s pilots commence training on the F-16, the focus will shift to determining which countries will provide the fighter jets to the Ukrainian Air Force. Working in collaboration with other nations, the US aims to identify the best options to meet Ukraine’s requirements.
Overall, the US commitment to approving the transfer of F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine is a testament to its dedication to Ukraine’s security and defense. By providing the necessary training and support, the US and its allies are working together to empower Ukraine and enhance its ability to counter potential threats.
