The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine is creating a special structure for the integration of F-16 multi-role fighters.
This was announced by First Deputy Defense Minister Oleksandr Pavliuk.
He presented the concept of the new structure at a conference with Western partners in Copenhagen, Denmark.
The purpose of the new unit under the Ministry of Defense is to organize a continuous process of integration of F-16 aircraft into the overall system of the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
F-16 integration: stages and directions
According to Pavliuk, the integration program for the US F-16 fighter jets will have two stages: a fast track, designed to last until the end of 2024, and scaling up.
The following key areas of work are envisaged:
- Maintaining and developing the infrastructure of airfields and air bases in Ukraine.
- Comprehensive protection of airfield infrastructure, including air defense systems.
- Recruitment and training of pilots and other aviation personnel.
- Supporting the life cycle of fighter aircraft and their logistical support.
- International communication, other legal, financial, security and administrative functions.
According to Mr. Pavliuk, one of the key priorities is to develop the tactical aviation capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force and rearm aviation brigades.
As of November, Ukraine was assessing airfields for F-16 fighters with the assistance of foreign experts. At the same time, the first Ukrainian pilots and engineers are training on these aircraft abroad.
Recently it became known that pilot training has started in the United States. The Pentagon is also addressing the issue of providing Ukraine with spare parts for F-16s.
Training of Ukrainians on American fighters has also begun in Romania.
