Ukrainian Pilots Arrive in Denmark for F-16 Training

Denmark’s defense ministry said eight Ukrainian pilots have touched down on its soil to learn how to fly the American-made F-16.

The number of Ukrainian F-16 pilots and crews arriving at an air base in Skrydstrup was revealed by Denmark on August 22. The Royal Danish Air Force’s (RDAF) fighter wing, consisting of the 727th and 730th squadrons, is stationed at the base.

Aside of pilots, 65 personnel will be trained in maintaining and servicing the jets.

The ministry said the Ukrainian pilots would have to clear security, health and language checks before practical F-16 training begins.

Other countries from the 11-member coalition formed to provide F-16s to Kyiv will join Denmark soon.

The training is expected to last a “minimum of six months.” 

Denmark has agreed to transfer 19 F-16 combat jets of unknown version to Ukraine. The RDAF has F-16AMs and BMs in service.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said her country would “hopefully” provide six F-16s around new year, eight more next year and the remaining five in 2025.

Denmark has F-16AM (Block 20 MLU) aircraft that were modernized from F-16A/Bs. This modernization is equivalent to Block 50/52. These fighters can fire radar-guided air-to-air missiles and generally received improved specifications.