There are tensions between Ukraine and its Western partners regarding F-16 pilot training. Kyiv is pressing the U.S. and European countries to expand the program, but allies counter that Ukraine’s pilots aren’t yet ready to fly the incoming F-16 jets in large numbers. Currently, Ukraine has 30 eligible pilots for training in the U.S., but logistical constraints limit the number of trainees accepted at a time. The Biden administration has cited space limitations at the Arizona-based training program, which can accommodate only up to 12 pilot trainees simultaneously. Similar issues exist at facilities in Denmark and Romania. Despite these challenges, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, and Belgium plan to send over 60 U.S.-made F-16 jets to Kyiv this summer. While Ukrainians hope that more F-16s will help push back Russian forces, the U.S. remains cautious about their impact on the battlefield.
The West refuses to train more Ukrainian F-16 pilots until Kyiv receives enough fighters – Politico citing a source in the US Department of Defense pic.twitter.com/tNGcJOwwQG
— Jack Straw (@JackStr42679640) June 14, 2024