Ukrainian Pilots Begin F-16 Training in Romania as Denmark Considers Providing More Aircraft.

According to a statement from the Netherlands on September 16, 2024, fourteen Ukrainian pilots have started training on F-16 fighter jets in Romania. This marks a significant step in strengthening Ukraine's air defense capabilities amid ongoing Russian attacks. The initiative is part of an international coalition led by the Netherlands, Denmark, and the United States.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Dutch Ministry of Defense confirmed that practical lessons for the Ukrainian pilots are expected to begin by the end of the year. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

The pilots are being trained at Fetesti Air Base, a facility established to support the Ukrainian Air Force. Of the 18 F-16 aircraft provided by the Netherlands, 14 are now in use at this European training center. Relocating the training to Romania reduces travel time for Ukrainian pilots, allowing them to focus more on their preparation.

The Dutch Ministry of Defense confirmed that practical lessons for the Ukrainian pilots are expected to begin by the end of the year. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans stated, "It is a significant advancement that the first Ukrainian pilots have begun their training. They will establish a solid foundation at the European F-16 training center to defend their country with these fighter jets against Russia's relentless attacks. We will continue to work with our allies to strengthen Ukraine's air defense. This is urgent."

Meanwhile, Denmark is considering providing "another batch" of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, in addition to the 19 aircraft already promised. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen indicated that the second batch could be delivered by the end of the year, but specific details remain "classified for operational security reasons."

In August, Ukraine received its first ten F-16s. NATO members including Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway have committed to supplying at least 79 of these fourth-generation aircraft. The Ukrainian Air Force is sending experienced MiG-29 pilots to participate in the training. The F-16 conversion program is designed to be swift yet comprehensive, offering both initial flight training and advanced operational skills.

However, the accelerated pace of the training has raised concerns. An F-16 was lost late last month, and the pilot, Oleksiy Mes—one of the first Ukrainians trained on the F-16—was killed. His loss is considered significant for the Ukrainian Air Force.

Relocating the training to Romania allows Ukrainian pilots to spend more time training and less time traveling. Previously, Ukrainian pilots received their final training at Skrydstrup Air Base in Denmark. Fetesti Air Base, located in eastern Romania, was established last year with assistance from Lockheed Martin to train Romanian Air Force pilots on the F-16. Romania received a batch of refurbished F-16s from Norway to replace its aging Soviet-era MiG-21s, while awaiting the delivery of its first F-35 Lightning IIs later in the decade.
The first class of Romanian pilots graduated in July, and the center is now being used to train Ukrainians. This initiative is part of a broader international effort to support Ukraine's air defense in the face of continued Russian aggression.

Last month, Ukraine deployed U.S.-made F-16s in combat for the first time to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for additional aircraft to strengthen the country's air defenses.

Cooperation among allied countries, including the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, and the United States, underscores the international commitment to support Ukraine in its struggle to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.