Ukrainian pilots start language courses in the US

The United States has started training Ukrainian pilots to master US F-16 fighter jets.

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said at a press conference that several Ukrainian pilots were currently taking language courses.

According to a Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary, the English language courses are being held in the US state of Texas. The number of pilots who have started training is not disclosed.

“The duration of the courses will depend on the qualifications and level of knowledge of Ukrainian pilots,” Singh said.

She added that after completing the language courses, Ukrainian pilots would begin specialized training on F-16s in Arizona.

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh also said that a possible shutdown – a temporary suspension of the work of US federal authorities – would also affect the training program for Ukrainian pilots and maintenance personnel on F-16 fighter jets.

According to a Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary, “a shutdown is the worst-case scenario that could come for the Ministry” in terms of training Ukrainians on fighter jets.

She explained that while military personnel in the United States continue to perform their duties even under the shutdown, civilian employees are mostly forced to go on unpaid leave.

“That is, civilian personnel involved in training Ukrainian pilots – now we are talking about teaching English. In this sense, the impact (of the shutdown on F-16 training – Ed.) is quite possible,” Singh added.

A Ukrainian pilot with the call sign Moonfish shared how training on the F-16 was carried out.

“First of all, it’s theoretical training, it’s quite intense and extensive. Before you get into the cockpit, you have to know the plane completely. You can’t just stop at the roadside and scratch your head and think about what to do with it.”

He also explained that the pilots first go through the theory, then apply the knowledge gained on a real plane, and then return to the theory to start learning a new block. On average, according to him, this takes two weeks.