Ukraine may start using F-16 fighters in the spring of 2024. Consideration should be given to training and infrastructure preparation time.
“I would say that this (the appearance of the F-16 at the front – ed.) can happen next spring, because we have started training courses for our pilots, engineers and technicians,” he said.
According to the minister, it is necessary to prepare the infrastructure for the use of aircraft in Ukraine.
“It should take at least six months, and maybe a little more,” Reznikov added.
As the head of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry noted, the appearance of fighters at the front could “change the rules of the game” in the war.
“We must end Russia’s dominance in the skies, outside the battlefield. F-16 aircraft will become part of the air defense. We can strengthen our capabilities in the skies to protect the airspace, that is, our cities. For us, this would be a big breakthrough. Very big,” he added.
F-16 for Ukraine
Earlier, Ukraine’s allies announced the creation of an aviation coalition to transfer modern fighters to the state, in particular, the F-16. The coalition is led by the Netherlands and Denmark. In particular, it has recently become known that Ukraine will receive at least 61 aircraft from Denmark and the Netherlands.
In addition, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov said earlier that deliveries of Western aircraft could not be expected until the New Year .
Source : RBC
