First Group of Ukrainian Pilots Finish Training

A significant milestone has been reached as the first group of Ukrainian student pilots, aged 21 to 23, successfully completed their fighter training in France, where they had been training since March 2024, according to Aerotime. 

Conducted at a secure airbase in southwest France, this program utilized the Alpha Jet despite its replacement by the Pilatus PC-21, ensuring operational readiness for the Ukrainian trainees. With the support of Belgium, the course was condensed from 18 to six months, equipping pilots with essential air combat skills through simulator sessions and extensive flight training. Following this, the pilots are expected to transition to the European F-16 Training Centre in Romania before further training on the Dassault Mirage 2000-5, as pledged by French President Emmanuel Macron for 2024. This initiative underscores the collaborative efforts among Western allies to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities amidst ongoing challenges.