UK to train Ukrainian pilots this summer

Training for Ukrainian pilots will begin in the United Kingdom this summer.

That's according to a press release from the British government, Ukrinform reports.

The government recalled that in February, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that the UK would develop a new training program for Ukrainian pilots to support efforts to create a new air force in Ukraine in accordance with NATO standards, with F16 aircraft.

"This summer we will commence an elementary flying phase for cohorts of Ukrainian pilots to learn basic training. This will adapt the programme used by UK pilots to provide Ukrainians with piloting skills they can apply a different kind of aircraft," the statement said.

It is emphasized that these exercises are closely linked to the UK's efforts to cooperate with other countries to provide Ukraine with F-16 fighters.

It is noted that since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the United Kingdom has trained 15,000 Ukrainian military personnel. And between 2014 and 2022, 22,000 Ukrainian military personnel were trained in the UK as part of Operation Orbital.

In addition, it is reported that next month the UK will host a conference on Ukraine's recovery to boost international investment in areas such as clean energy and technology.

As reported, President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting the UK on Monday.