Ukrainian pilot spoke about mastering the F-16 fighter
Date: 2023-11-21 Author: Кирило Загоруйко Categories: WAR
A Ukrainian pilot of the Ukrainian Air Force with the call sign Moonfish spoke about the advantages of the F-16 fighter. In his opinion, it is ergonomic, has more advanced electronic systems and is easy to operate.
Moonfish explained that the software on the F-16 is constantly being improved, while on the Soviet MiG-29 and Su-27 it never changes, CNN reports.
The pilot added that the F-16 "has a very good weapon that can carry out any mission." According to the serviceman, this fighter can perform a number of functions, including providing air cover for ground troops, attacking ground targets, destroying enemy aircraft, and intercepting missiles.
At the same time, Moonfish noted that it could take years to fully train an F-16 pilot. However, Ukrainian military pilots undergo an “accelerated” training course. They are given about six months to master this aircraft. "We would have a lot of time to fully study the jet in peacetime. But we don't have time," Moonfish admitted. At the same time, he noted that the allotted time is enough to master the basic capabilities of the F-16 that Ukraine needs.
Moonfish said that he has already moved from the simulator to the cockpit of a real fighter, but it takes a little getting used to, because “the cockpit is quite cramped.”
“The F-16 is very maneuverable. This encourages you to fly in an aggressive style,” the pilot shared his impression.
"Even if we assume that the war ends tomorrow, we all understand that it will only be a period of waiting for the next round... We must create proper air power with Western jets and effectively trained personnel. This will be the biggest deterrent - so that on February 24 did not happen again,” the Ukrainian pilot concluded.
