The training of pilots and engineers on the F-16 takes a long time. And this is not about the flights themselves, but about the effective use of the capabilities and armament of the aircraft.

In an interview with Channel 24, Yuri Ignat, speaker of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, noted that the training of pilots and engineers is “a very difficult issue.”

How long does it take to master the F-16

According to Ignat, Ukrainian pilots will be able to master all types of weapons on the F-16 in about six months. For the exercises, the Air Force selected the most capable pilots with knowledge of English, with combat experience, hundreds of hours of flying, desire and optimism. He noted that these are young pilots who will have the prospect of further service. And for each pilot there is an individual training program.

The training of pilots and engineers is a very complex issue. These are two main and key issues, which, perhaps, will be that not fleeting and deterrent. A pilot can fly in 1-2 weeks, but learning how to use all systems and weapons effectively is another matter. The plane is designed to fight on it, and the pilot must learn how to fight on it,” Ignat said.

Do not forget about the need for training engineers

The speaker of the Air Force emphasized that it is necessary to train not only pilots, but also engineers. After all, dozens of people daily serve one aircraft before and after departure, and also undergo ongoing maintenance work and repairs.

Visually, American and Soviet aircraft seem to be flying anyway, but inside the system they are noticeably different. It is not an easy process,” he said.