Ukrainian pilots start training on F-16 in Romania

On 12 September, Ukraine's Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said that a group of Ukrainian air force pilots had started training on F-16 fighter jets in Romania.

Here's What We Know

According to the defence minister, Ukraine will soon receive a new Patriot air defence system from Romania. Umerov also plans to visit Romania soon.

When Ukraine received its first F-16s, it began preparing for the next deployment of new squadrons. However, in addition to technical problems, the country also needs to address human resources issues, including training new pilots.

Back in June this year, Romania agreed to fund training for Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets. The training will take place at the Fetesti air base. The country will use the budget of the Ministry of Defence to cover the costs incurred by Ukrainian pilots and technical staff at the Romanian airbase.

It is worth noting that only in 2023, an F-16 training centre was opened at this airbase, where, in addition to Ukrainian pilots, Romanian pilots will also be trained. The centre was created together with other allies and the aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Source: Rustem Umerov