As Ukraine eagerly awaits the arrival of F-16s in 2024, new details have emerged about the training of Ukrainian pilots and maintainers in the United States. According to a U.S. defense official, four Ukrainian pilots are currently undergoing F-16 training at Morris Air National Guard Base in Arizona.

The training is taking place with the 162nd Wing, a dedicated foreign F-16 training unit of the U.S. Air Force. Additionally, several other Ukrainian pilots are undergoing English-language training, while approximately 20 maintainers are also undergoing English-language training at Joint Base San Antonio in Texas.

The progress in F-16 pilot training for Ukraine was confirmed by assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, Celeste Wallander, during a virtual meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. The aim is to provide an initial operating capability for Ukraine's F-16 program in 2024, which includes trained pilots, maintainers, infrastructure, spare parts, and ammunition.

The training efforts are being coordinated by an Air Force Coalition within the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. While the U.S. government must approve any F-16 transfers, it does not plan to provide its own F-16s.

At Morris Air National Guard Base, the Ukrainian pilots are undergoing the six-month "B Course" designed to familiarize them with the fundamentals necessary to transition to the F-16. The training includes extensive time in the simulator and aerial training in both single-seat F-16Cs and dual-seat F-16Ds.

Denmark is also playing a major role in training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s. They have already begun training eight pilots and over 60 maintainers. The United Kingdom is contributing by providing aviation-specific English language training to Ukrainian aircraft technicians.

While Ukraine has experienced pilots, learning Western airpower doctrine and adapting to the F-16's systems, such as the complex hands-on throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) system, is crucial. As such, the training for Ukrainian pilots is expected to be tailored to their needs.

However, it is not just about training pilots; a comprehensive approach is required to effectively utilize the F-16s. This includes considering command and control and sensing platforms, determining proper basing to protect the aircraft, and developing storage solutions for munitions.

Retired Air Force Gen. Philip M. Breedlove emphasized the importance of adequate preparation in utilizing the F-16s effectively. He highlighted the need for connective capabilities and a well-planned strategy to protect the aircraft on the ground.

Yurii Inhat, spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for comprehensive readiness, including pilots, infrastructure, maintenance engineers, and other factors that are crucial but may not receive as much attention.

As the training of Ukrainian pilots progresses in the United States, efforts are underway to ensure that Ukraine is fully prepared to deploy the F-16s and maximize their capabilities. With the support of partner countries, Ukraine aims to create a robust infrastructure to ensure the successful operation of these advanced aircraft.