Ukraine may receive the first F-16 fighter from international partners in the first half of 2024.
A group of Democrats in the US House of Representatives is calling on the Pentagon to expand training for Ukrainian F-16 fighter pilots. Politico reported this on Monday, July 1.
Lawmakers led by Representative Adam Schiff reportedly supported Ukraine’s request to train 10 more Ukrainian F-16 pilots this year and asked Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to grant it.
“The request comes at a critical time in Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia, when the deployment of F-16 aircraft could significantly affect the outcome of the war,” said 15 lawmakers in a letter obtained of Politico.
“By the end of the year, Ukraine will have more F-16 aircraft than qualified pilots to fly them, a situation that threatens to undermine the strategic advantage these aircraft can provide Ukraine,” they added.
US lawmakers say NATO allies have extensive training programs and could accommodate Ukraine’s request for additional training. But they want the Pentagon to lead this process.
“These efforts will not only strengthen Ukraine’s ability to effectively use the F-16, but also strengthen the broader coalition’s commitment to support Ukraine in its fight for sovereignty and territorial integrity,” said statement.
We remind you that a certain number of F-16 fighters to be transferred by partners to Ukraine will be stored in secure air bases abroad.
The Ukrainians will no longer train the F-16 in Denmark
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Source: korrespondent
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.