Media reports Greek sending air force pilot to Ukraine
(MENAFN) In a significant development, Greece has reportedly dispatched its inaugural instructor to Ukraine to provide training for local pilots in the operation of F-16 fighter jets. According to Defence-Point, a prominent media outlet, Athens has accumulated substantial expertise in the utilization of these United States-manufactured aircraft over the years, rendering its involvement crucial in enhancing Ukraine's aerial capabilities.
The initiative stems from a collaborative effort among NATO member states, which was formalized during a summit held in Lithuania in July last year. At the summit, a coalition comprising several nations, including Belgium, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and others, pledged to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets and offer comprehensive training to its pilots. Among the participating states, Greece's commitment to join the coalition was revealed by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in August.
Defence-Point's recent report alleges that a member of the Greek Air Force has already commenced training activities in Kiev, marking a tangible step towards bolstering Ukraine's defense capabilities. The media outlet highlights Greece's extensive experience in operating F-16 aircraft, particularly in close air combat scenarios with neighboring Türkiye, as invaluable knowledge that could be transferred to Ukrainian pilots.
In a separate development, Ukrainian MP Aleksey Goncharenko took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to suggest that a contingent of French instructors is en route to Ukraine. Although Goncharenko's claim remains unconfirmed and relies on unnamed sources, it underscores the broader international support garnered by Ukraine in its efforts to strengthen its military capabilities.
The deployment of Greek and potentially French instructors signifies a multi-national collaboration aimed at enhancing Ukraine's air force capabilities amidst ongoing regional tensions. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, such partnerships underscore the importance of collective defense efforts and cooperation within the NATO framework.
MENAFN04062024000045015687ID1108293224
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.