The U.S. decision to allow European countries to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets represents a significant shift in President Biden's stance on Ukraine's defence capabilities. Despite initially expressing doubts about the necessity of F-16s for Ukraine, the ongoing challenge posed by Russian air power has prompted a change in approach.
The F-16's advanced features, including air-to-air refuelling and compatibility with NATO weapons, make it a valuable asset for Ukraine's ground forces, which have encountered difficulties due to Russia's air superiority. By granting permission for training, the US aims to support Ukraine in countering Russia's military advantage, reports CNN on July 16.
The timeline for the training will be determined by European allies, and the US has pledged to accommodate their needs. The F-16's modernised versions, despite entering production in the 1980s, outperform Ukraine's current fleet and present a formidable challenge to most Russian aircraft, with a few exceptions that Moscow has yet to deploy in Ukraine.
The US commitment to ensuring the F-16 training proceeds without delay underscores its dedication to reinforcing Ukraine's defence capabilities.
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