Against the background of a tense situation in Ukraine, the United States began training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighters. According to the Pentagon information, the US Department of Defense is actively involving Ukrainian pilots in training programs aimed at mastering the management of F-16 aircraft. In parallel, the issue of providing Ukraine with spare parts for these fighters is considered.
The Ukrainian military is also trained in Europe. Ukraine is expected to receive fighters from the Netherlands, Denmark and Norway, and Ukrainian pilots receive training both in the US and in Europe, focusing on flight operation and maintenance.
To ensure successful operation of F-16 fighters, the US also plans to supply spare parts for aircraft for 90 days. It is noted that this step is strategically important because without the proper provision of spare parts the planes can be decommissioned.
US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said, "We will not allow it. And if other countries do not provide spare parts, we will find and provide them."
