Britain will train Ukrainian pilots on NATO-standard jets

In the summer of 2023, Great Britain will begin basic training of Ukrainian pilots to fly Western combat jets.

The press service of the British government reported this on Monday as Ukrainian President Zelensky visits the UK today for meetings with British leaders.  

What is the problem?

Ukraine has faced challenges in protecting its sky and supporting its air defense in Russia's full-scale war because of a lack of jets in its Air Force. As the Ukrainian government and president are lobbying for Western partners to provide their army with NATO-standard, particularly F16 jets, it became necessary for Ukrainian pilots to be trained on these aircraft to use them immediately after acquiring them.

What is the solution?

The UK has announced that Ukrainian pilots will be trained this summer on NATO-standard jets to enhance Ukraine's defensive capabilities and support counteroffensive operations and current air defense. Britain is adapting the program according to which the British Royal Air Force pilots are trained for Ukrainian pilots to make it more versatile.

How does it work?

"This summer, we will commence an elementary flying phase for cohorts of Ukrainian pilots to learn basic training," the statement says. "This will adapt the program used by UK pilots to provide Ukrainians with piloting skills they can apply a different kind of aircraft."

The British government reported that aviation training of Ukrainian pilots goes hand in hand with Britain's efforts to ensure the supply of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in cooperation with other countries.

"The UK would develop a new training program for Ukrainian pilots to support their efforts to build a new Ukrainian air force with NATO-standard F16 jets," the British Government said.