Ukraine forms F-16 squadron staffed by Ukrainian, US and Dutch pilots

Ukrainska Pravda - 16 February, 19:47

Stock Photo: F-16 fighter jets

A new international F-16 fighter jet squadron staffed by Ukrainian, US and Dutch pilots has been assembled in Ukraine. The western pilots, who are working under temporary contracts, are helping the Ukrainian pilots to master the aircraft's technical advantages.

Source: Intelligence Online

Details: The unit was created "in recent weeks" by the Ukrainian Air Force for immediate deployment. The international squadron is currently playing a central role in the air defence of Kyiv Oblast, which Russia is attacking with drones and missiles, Intelligence Online says.

The unit includes American pilots who "have carried out numerous combat missions in Afghanistan" and a western veteran who performed missions in the Middle East before joining the mission in Ukraine. Among the Dutch pilots are graduates of "leading European air combat schools known for their advanced training in interception and modern aerial warfare".

Intelligence Online says that unlike Ukrainian pilots, who are integrated into the conventional chain of command, the Western veterans are working under temporary contracts, similar to specialised contractors. These agreements cover six-month rotations that are renewable in line with operational requirements.

Pilots from the international F-16 unit frequently patrol during overnight Russian attacks to provide a more rapid response to aerial threats and maximise radar coverage. Intelligence Online notes that the most significant contribution of the Western veterans within Ukraine's air defence structure is their experience and skills in using the fighter jets' high-precision sensors, particularly the Lockheed Martin Sniper targeting pod.

This ultra-high-precision electro-optical and infrared system is used for long-range identification, tracking fast-moving targets and conducting strikes in adverse weather conditions. According to several sources close to the General Staff, the Ukrainian crews already had some understanding of these technological components, but only partially, due to the lack of many years of training on this type of Western system.

A Lockheed Martin Sniper targeting pod used in F-16 fighter jets.

Photo: Lockheed Martin

The international squadron helps repel Russian aerial attacks almost daily, particularly by intercepting Kalibr and Kh-101 missiles, Geran-5 drones and other assets, Intelligence Online added.

Background:

It was recently reported that the Netherlands is set to send training simulators for F-16 pilots to Ukraine.
The US Department of War has signed a contract worth over US$235.4 million for the maintenance of F-16 fighter jets, including for Ukraine.

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