From: New Voice of Ukraine 🇺🇦
The first group of Ukrainian pilots arrived in Canada this week to begin training for flying F-16 fighter jets, Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair announced during the Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting at Ramstein.
The Canadian government’s press office confirmed the news.
Blair noted that the pilot training program is being funded as part of Canada’s $389 million contribution.
Canada will also provide critical equipment and other support for Ukrainian airbases and fleets, according to Blair.
Ukraine and the F-16s: Key Points
On Aug. 4, during the 20th anniversary of Ukraine’s Air Force, President Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine would receive F-16 fighter jets.
Several F-16s, along with MiG-29 and Su-27 aircraft, flew over Ukrainian skies during a ceremony honoring the country’s airmen.
Experts at Defense Express observed that the F-16s showcased on Aug. 4 were armed with two types of air-to-air missiles:
- AIM-9, with infrared guidance for close-range targets.
- AIM-120, radar-guided for medium and long-range engagements.
According to The Economist, Ukraine has received 10 of the 79 promised aircraft, and by the end of 2024, Ukrainian forces are expected to have 20 F-16s ready for operational use.
Voice of Ukraine 