Ukrainian Pilots Receiving Secret F-16 Jet Training in Romania

In Romania, Ukrainian pilots are undergoing secret training on F-16 jets to enhance Ukraine’s aerial defense capabilities.

At a Glance

The Netherlands delivered three more F-16 jets to Romania for Ukrainian pilot training.
The mission helps Ukrainian aircrews transition from Soviet-era aircraft to F-16s amid the conflict with Russia.
There are a total of 11 Dutch F-16s dedicated to this training program in Romania.
All jets involved will operate exclusively above NATO airspace.
The U.S. approved the transfer of Dutch and Danish F-16s to Ukraine last year, contingent on pilot training completion.

Ukrainian Pilots Receive Training on F-16 Jets

A specialized facility in Romania is currently training Ukrainian pilots to master F-16 fighter jets. This secretive operation is being conducted by a private company and represents a significant move to bolster Ukraine’s aerial defense. The Netherlands recently delivered three more F-16 Fighting Falcons to Bucharest, adding to a total of 11 jets now dedicated to training Ukrainian pilots, as reported by The Defense Post.

The same source notes that this mission will aid Kyiv’s aircrews in transitioning from outdated Soviet-era aircraft to the advanced F-16 jets amid Russia’s invasion. These efforts involve a significant learning curve and require the pilots to adapt to modernized warfare techniques, an essential step in Ukraine’s defense strategy.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has authorized the training of about 50 Ukrainian pilots on F-16 aircraft at his country's military bases.https://t.co/E7L7gxsCFh

— The New Voice of Ukraine (@NewVoiceUkraine) March 19, 2024

Challenges in Training Ukrainian Pilots

This crucial training initiative, however, comes with its own set of challenges. According to Politico, Ukraine has 30 pilots ready for training, but the U.S. facilities can only accommodate 12 at a time in Arizona. Additionally, training facilities in Denmark and Romania face similar capacity limitations. Despite these logistical hurdles, the U.S. National Guard plans to train 12 Ukrainian pilots by the end of September in Tucson.

“Dozens of pilots from several countries are conducting basic flight training and F-16 training in the U.S. and Europe,” said Pentagon spokesperson Maj. Charlie Dietz.

European-trained Ukrainian F-16 pilots will not be ready until late 2024, adding pressure on the training efforts. This situation is further complicated by the relatively inexperienced Ukrainian pilots, aged between 21 and 23, who require extensive training.

⚡️ Zelensky: First Dutch F-16 jets already in Romania.

Five Dutch F-16 fighter jets have already arrived to a training center in Romania to help prepare Ukrainian pilots for flying the aircraft, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Nov. 7.

— The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) November 7, 2023

Efforts to Enhance Aerial Defense

Four European countries—Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, and Belgium—have committed to providing over 60 F-16 jets to Ukraine in total. Recently inaugurated on November 13, a European F-16 Training Center in Borcea, Romania marks a major step forward. Romanian president Klaus Iohannis has approved the training of approximately 50 Ukrainian pilots on F-16 aircraft to streamline these efforts.

“With F-16s, Ukraine can better defend itself against Russian aggression. We are working hard to transfer the devices as quickly as possible,” Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren remarked during the acceptance ceremony in Romania.

Despite trained volunteer pilots and a growing supply of jets, the logistical and infrastructural challenges remain. It is critical that these programs effectively train and prepare pilots for advanced combat scenarios. Ukraine aims to graduate 20 F-16 pilots by the end of the year, half the number needed for a full squadron.

Anticipated Outcomes and Strategic Importance

Amidst escalating tensions, the timely and effective training of these pilots is crucial. The addition of F-16 fighters to Ukraine’s arsenal will significantly boost its defensive posture. While current training facilities face capacity and logistical issues, ongoing efforts from multiple European countries aim to enhance Ukraine’s air force substantially.

“The first deliveries are expected in mid-2024, but the F-16s could arrive even before the start of summer,” said Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo.

The dedication of international partners, along with Ukraine’s resilient efforts, underscores the joint commitment to maintaining stability and countering aggression in the region. This multifaceted approach is instrumental in ensuring that Ukraine remains equipped and prepared to defend its sovereignty with advanced aerial capabilities.