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Ukrainian Pilots Arrive in Canada for F-16 Training

Sep 06, 2024 16:52

1 min read

Authors: Maryna Kulakova
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Illustrative photo of four F-16 Fighting Falcons are seen behind a KC-135 air refueling jet as the aircraft participate in the Joint Expeditionary Force Experiment 2006 April 22, 2006 at Nellis Air Force Base near Las Vegas, Nevada. (Source: Getty Images)

A group of Ukrainian pilots has arrived in Canada for advanced training on the F-16.

This was announced by the Canadian government.

Canadian Defense Minister Bill Blair stated that the group of Ukrainian Armed Forces pilots arrived this week to begin their training.

He noted that Canada is now leading the FLIT component within the US Coalition Joint Forces, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force. Over the next five years, this coalition will invest $389 million in training F-16 pilots for Ukrainian personnel.

"This support package includes the initiation of pilot training. As part of our commitment to AFCC, Canada will also provide crucial equipment and additional support to Ukrainian airbases and fleets," Blair said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy officially confirmed the arrival of F-16 fighters in Ukraine on August 4, 2024. On August 26, Ukraine deployed them to counter Russia’s large-scale air assault.