Ukrainian pilots are unable to learn to fly F-16s because of… a lack of English skills?

On August 4th, Politico (USA) cited sources saying that Western efforts to train Ukrainian pilots to fly F-16s are being hampered by language barriers.

Ukrainian pilots face numerous language barriers during their training to operate F-16 fighter jets. (Image: F-16s of the Portuguese and Romanian Air Forces at Siauliai Air Base during NATO exercises in early July. Source: Getty Images)

According to a U.S. official and a source close to the matter, an initial group of eight Ukrainian pilots fluent in English were ready to participate in training after several European countries developed formal instruction plans that were approved by the U.S.

However, "English proficiency remains a significant challenge" for the remaining 32 pilots participating in the F-16 fighter jet training program. Therefore, 20 with basic English skills will begin language courses in the UK this month.

For months, Kyiv has repeatedly requested F-16s from the West, arguing that these fighter jets would help it "turn the tide" against Russia.

However, Washington disagreed with this. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan argued that the F-16 would have limited impact due to the ongoing and widespread operation of air defense systems in Ukraine.

However, in mid-May, Britain and the Netherlands announced the formation of an “international coalition” to help Ukraine purchase F-16 fighter jets, with the participation of 11 NATO countries, including the United States.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the training campaign will begin this month. Meanwhile, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba predicts the first batch of fighter jets will be delivered to Ukraine early next year.

However, efforts to lay the groundwork for the aircraft transfer have encountered some obstacles, with reports that the US and its allies have not yet agreed on exactly who will train the Ukrainian pilots, or where the training will take place.

For its part, Russia has repeatedly warned the West that the transfer of F-16s to Ukraine would lead to an escalation of the conflict. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also stated that the US-made jets are capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/politico-phi-cong-ukraine-chua-the-hoc-lai-f-16-vi-thieu-tieng-anh-237274.html