Ukrainian pilots graduate RAF training 'ready to show the world what we can do'
Eight Ukrainian pilots have graduated from elementary flying training with the RAF, their first step in preparing for advanced fast jet training and, ultimately, conversion to flying F-16s.
They are the third cohort to complete the 16 weeks of training in eastern England, at a location that cannot be named for security reasons.
During their graduation ceremony, one Ukrainian pilot, Skipper, told BFBS Forces News: "We are ready to show all of the world what we can do."
"The main things we have learnt here is three words – learn, fight, win," he said. "We do our best."
The pilots have completed 50 hours of training in Grob tutor aircraft, previously used by RAF pilots, and also received English language lessons.
Air Vice Marshal Ian Townsend, the Air Officer Commanding 22 Group, called the pilots' progression "absolutely incredible".
He explained that initially, they were to be taught English before learning to fly, but instead, they did both together.
"We contextualised the English language within the confines of the cockpit and that accelerated their learning very quickly.
"They have come on extraordinarily well and their pilot skills are absolutely superb for this stage of the training."
Despite continuous calls from Ukraine, it remains unclear if they will ever be granted permission to fire Storm Shadow missiles given to them by the UK into Russian territory.
On whether a decision will be made, Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard said: "There's clearly conversations that are still going on between the United Kingdom, Ukraine and our allies in relation to further deeper range fires.
"But we will continue to support everything in the meantime as well, so training, ammunition, support, repair of vehicles, the whole range, because, ultimately, one weapons system will not in itself win a war,
"We've got a long way to go, and that's why our support will be long lasting and we'll be alongside Ukraine for as long as it takes."
Join Our Newsletter
