The Czech Republic will train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 and F-39 fighter jets as part of the international effort to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence capabilities, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala announced during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Prague.
Fiala confirmed that the training would take place at military bases in the Czech Republic and would be conducted in coordination with other members of the Coalition of the Willing, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.
"We have agreed that together with our partners that we will train Ukrainian pilots on F-16 and F-39. The training will take place here at the bases in Czechia. Ukraine trains fighter pilots on Czech models that are supplied to Ukraine," Fiala said.
The announcement follows a separate press conference on May 4, during which President Zelenskyy and Czech President Petr Pavel revealed plans to establish a joint training school for Ukrainian F-16 pilots. Zelenskyy noted that work on the project is already underway.
Ukraine has been bolstering its air force since forming an aviation coalition with its allies in 2023. As part of the coalition's mission, Ukraine aims to secure at least 128 F-16 fighters to defend against the ongoing Russian invasion.
The first F-16 jets were delivered to Ukraine by the Netherlands and Denmark. At the same time, it is not yet known how many planes Ukraine has received. In March 2025, Zelenskyy confirmed the arrival of a new batch of the fighter aircraft.
Belgium has also pledged to deliver 30 F-16 jets to Ukraine by the end of 2028.
By Sabina Mammadli
Source: caliber.az
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