Next comes practice: Ukrainian pilots in Romania undergoing flight theory training on F-16s
Photo: Ukrainian pilots in Romania undergoing flight theory training on F-16s (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The first group of Ukrainian pilots has begun training on F-16 fighter jets at an airbase in Romania. They are currently undergoing theoretical lessons, states Romanian Ministry of Defense spokesperson Constantin Spînu.
According to him, the first four pilots from Ukraine arrived in Romania earlier this week and began "theoretical training."
He noted that practical exercises may start "towards the end of the year."
What you need to know about the F-16 fighter jet
The F-16 is a multi-role lightweight combat aircraft developed in the United States by General Dynamics (now Lockheed Martin). It was designed to perform various combat missions, including air-to-air combat, ground strikes, and reconnaissance. The F-16 boasts high maneuverability and is capable of carrying a wide range of weapons, including air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as bombs.
Due to its combat capabilities and relatively low cost, the F-16 is widely used by many countries around the world. It remains in service with numerous air forces and is frequently upgraded to meet current technological standards.
What came before
In July of this year, Ukraine received its first F-16 fighter jets, and the F-16 training center in Romania prepared the first group of pilots.
Recently, Ukraine's Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated that more F-16 fighter jets would appear in Ukrainian skies, and a group of Ukrainian pilots has already begun training in Romania.
On August 29, media began reporting that one of the F-16 fighter jets had crashed in Ukraine. Later, the Air Force reported the death of pilot Oleksiy Mesya, and the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces confirmed the loss of the F-16.
