Ukrainian pilots use VR simulators for faster adaptation and training on F-16 fighter jets

Ukrainian pilots master the controls of American-made F-16 fighter jets using a flight simulator.

The Air Force shared a video showing a Ukrainian pilot learning to fly an F-16 fighter jet using virtual reality glasses, an engine control handle, pedals, and a monitor on an airplane simulator, Rubryka reports.

The pilots get to know the jet's cockpit in virtual reality and perform joint missions over the Ukrainian territory as part of a pair, unit, or squadron while being in different locations in the country.

Virtual simulators allow them not to be tied to a specific location and time but to relearn in their free time.

With experience gained on simulators, Ukrainian pilots can quickly undergo training on real planes in partner countries.

What we know about F-16 fighter pilot training

Many European countries have agreed to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets as part of the jet coalition.

After President Volodymyr Zelensky's recent visits to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway, these nations announced that they would provide Ukraine with at least 61 fighter jets.

In September, the Pentagon plans to start training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets in the United States. First, they will learn English and then begin flight training.

Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian forces, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, has already discussed the training of Ukrainian pilots and engineers on F-16 jets with the Chief of Defense Staff of Denmark, General Flemming Lentfer.

Ukraine will receive 42 American-made F-16 fighter jets from the Netherlands and 19 planes from Denmark. Training of Ukrainian pilots will begin as soon as possible.

Earlier, Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat reported that Ukraine needs about 128 jets to gain superiority in the sky and replace the old aircraft fleet.

Ukraine's defense ministry said that Ukraine could receive the first F-16 jets no earlier than in 6-7 months.