Ukraine can use no more than 10 F-16s this year — NYT

Ukraine hopes that the F-16s can be used as early as this year, but a lack of trained pilots and intensified Russian bombing of air bases complicate matters.

The New York Times writes about this.

“In addition to Russian attacks on Ukrainian airfields, Ukraine will also be limited by a small number of trained pilots, according to Ukrainian and American military officials. According to U.S. officials, about 20 pilots are expected to be trained this year at various training centers in the United States, the Netherlands, and Denmark», — the report says.

It is noted that usually at least two pilots are allocated per plane—for crew rest, training, and other issues.

“Thus, this year Ukraine will be able to engage no more than 10 F-16 aircraft in combat missions.»

Another important limiting factor, according to this information, is the number of trained technical and support personnel on the ground who must support the F-16 in flight.

“Not only pilots are needed; maintenance is also an important component. Maintenance is a key part of this process, as is the training of the technicians.»