Challenge ahead. Is Ukraine's infrastructure ready for F-16: Air Force spokesman explains
Photo: Yurii Ihnat, spokesman of the Air Force of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Undoubtedly, the future F-16 fighter jets will be a target for Russians. The preparation of infrastructure for the aircraft is a serious matter today, states the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, Yurii Ihnat, during a telethon.
"You know, they could have been stationed here already, and they could take off like the American F-15s did in 2012 and 2018. To conduct takeoffs and landings, you need some control over them, communication systems, and more. Logistics, undoubtedly, airplanes need to be serviced and refueled. This can be done, and it was done on the territory of Ukraine," noted Ihnat.
According to the spokesperson for the Air Force, the preparation of infrastructure for the future F-16s is very serious today, especially in conditions of hostilities. To prevent the enemy from accessing the fighters, it is necessary to prepare runways, shelters, and "other aspects."
"Undoubtedly, the F-16 will be a target for the occupiers. We must do everything to ensure that the infrastructure being prepared is adapted. Because making it fundamentally sound is not a straightforward process, especially when we are under daily shelling. Adaptation is happening, and pilots are training," added Ihnat.
F-16 for Ukraine
Earlier, Ukraine's allies announced the creation of an aviation coalition to transfer modern F-16 fighters to our country. The coalition is led by the Netherlands and Denmark.
Recently, it became known that the first group of Ukrainian pilots completed the basic training program in Britain and began training on F-16s in Denmark.
Also, at the end of December, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced that the government of the Netherlands had decided to prepare the first 18 F-16 fighters for transfer to Ukraine.
