Ukraine's Defence Minister invites foreign F-16 pilots to join fight against Russia
Ukraine's Minister of Defence of Ukraine has invited foreign F-16 pilots to join the Ukrainian military in the fight against Russia.
During a briefing with his Danish counterpart, the Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov also reportedly called on foreign specialists with relevant permits and skills to maintain tanks and self-propelled guns to work in Ukraine.
"If there are pilots who know how to fly the F-16 and are ready to take part [in the war], the foreign legion is ready to open its door," Mr Reznikov said in the briefing.
Ukraine has been pushing its allies to send advanced warplanes for Ukrainian pilots to help Kyiv take control of its airspace in its ongoing war with Russia.
So far, Kyiv has only received Soviet aircraft from their allies.
Forces News spoke to former Air Marshal Greg Bagwell in January about whether it was feasible for Ukraine to receive F-16 fighter jets from the West and how these jets might be used by Ukrainian pilots.
According to Mr Bagwell, the F-16 is a "mature aircraft" and is being replaced by various Western countries.
"But it is still a very capable aircraft, plenty of flying hours still on them," said Mr Bagwell.
One of America's most decorated former fighter pilots has also said he would volunteer to fly combat missions over Ukraine if the chance was offered.
Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Dan 'Two Dogs' Hampton flew the F-16 for 20 years and earned four Distinguished Flying Crosses with Valor and a Purple Heart.
Now a successful author, Lt Col Hampton has spoken to Forces News, saying he backs the idea of giving Ukraine Western jets, particularly F-16s, but says it will take time.
"I think it's an excellent idea, I think it's more of a long-term answer, than a short-term answer," he said.
Join Our Newsletter
