The graduates: Ukrainian pilots complete RAF flight training vital to defending their nation
Ukrainian pilots have graduated from intensive training by the Royal Air Force in preparation for their progression to fly the F-16 fighter jet.
The ten pilots from Ukraine were the first to go through an intensive course of basic flying, ground school, general aircraft handling, flying by instruments, low-level navigation and advanced formation flying under the supervision of experienced RAF instructors using the Grob Tutor T.Mk 1 aircraft.
"I am grateful to the UK for its support to Ukraine and I am personally grateful to the Royal Air Force instructors for preparing me for the future," said one of the Ukrainian trainees.
The skills and drills learned by the 10 pilots one day will be used to defend the skies of their country from Vladimir Putin's invading forces.
The pilots will next take up advanced flight training with the French air force before moving to to learn how to fly the F-16 with another Nato ally.
"I have enjoyed being in the United Kingdom and being part of this training programme," added the unnamed pilot. "The course has been challenging and enjoyable. It has made me a better pilot."
The Ukrainian pilots also received English language training to assist in their training and to boost interoperability with Nato air forces – with English being the standardised international flight language.
While the current Ukrainian air force consists of Soviet-era technology, the boost received from the RAF can strengthen its air power as a countermeasure against Russia.
The Ukrainian pilots' training will continue under the French air force, which is closely aligned with the RAF in terms of training methods and programmes.
The new pilots will then move onto the capable F-16 Fighting Falcon.
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: "I would like to congratulate these brave pilots on completing their initial training here in the UK.
"Thanks to the world-renowned skills of the RAF, these pilots have received some of the best training available and are now a step closer to joining the fight against Putin's illegal invasion.
"The UK has led the way in building Ukraine's air capabilities over the last two years, enhancing its aircraft with additional equipment, as well as being the first nation to provide long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine.
"Ukraine has been using its air force to devastating effect, degrading the Russian Black Sea Fleet and severely damaging its headquarters.
"This milestone is another step forward for Ukraine's aerial capabilities – together with our allies we are showing that we will continue to stand by Ukraine's side."
Not only have these 10 Ukrainian pilots received advanced training, but more than 60,000 Ukrainians have received training in the UK since 2014, including 36,000 recruits since 2022 on Operation Interflex.
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