UK first country to start training Ukrainian pilots to NATO standards, says envoy

“In the future, pilots will be able to quickly retrain on specific equipment,” the European Pravda online newspaper quoted him as saying.

Read also: What are Ukrainian pilots being trained to do in the US? – expert view

“If the politicians make the final decision on F-16 fighter jets, these British-trained pilots will quickly master them. Britain has a role here, (it) is taking a step forward.”

According to Prystaiko, discussions are underway regarding the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Kyiv, but there are none in the United Kingdom.

Ukraine expects to receive several types of fighter jets from its partners, one of which will become the main one for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Read also: Ukraine selects fighter pilots for F-16 training, but allies yet to OK deliveries

The United States is not against other countries transferring aircraft for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. At the same time, U.S. President Joe Biden said that “so far” he rejected the possibility of transferring U.S. F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, as there is currently no need for them.

The U.S. Department of Defense said the most optimistic delivery time for older-model F-16s is about 18 months, while new planes could take three to six years to produce.

The Ukrainian Air Force said the United States had praised the skills of the Ukrainian pilots who were tested for their ability to learn to fly multi-purpose fighter jets.

Read also: Ukraine’s counteroffensive to determine US decision on F-16s, FM Kuleba says

In future, the F-16 training program may be “significantly reduced” in duration for them, the air force said.

We’re bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine