The first six Ukrainian pilots have completed basic training with the UK’s Royal Air Force and are currently learning to fly F-16 fighter jets in Denmark.

According to the UK Government, training in the UK began in August. Six experienced Ukrainian pilots have already completed this. Another ten trainee pilots are continuing their basic flight training, learning aviation medicine, and undergoing centrifuge training in the UK.

"I am proud of the support the Royal Air Force is providing to the next generation of Ukraine’s combat air pilots and ground crew, who will be the first line of defence in protecting Ukraine’s skies," UK Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said.

The UK programme is designed to provide pilots with the skills necessary to progress to the next stage of training on Western fighter jets and to bring them closer to NATO flight standards. 

Pilots undergo practical training on Grob Tutor aircraft, covering general control procedures, instrument flying, navigation at medium and low altitudes, as well as formation flying.

After training in the UK, the pilots will undergo further training in another European country to enhance their flying skills. 

It is also noted that dozens of Ukrainian aircraft technicians are undergoing English-language training focused on engineering specialisms.

Earlier, it was reported that France will begin training Ukrainian pilots on Western fighter jets in early 2024 as the initial part of a training programme that European partners will continue.

The European F-16 Training Centre (EFTC), where Ukrainian pilots will also be trained, has been opened at Feteşti Air Base in Romania with the assistance of the Netherlands.