Denmark will conclude its training of Ukrainian F-16 pilots by the end of 2026, Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced at a press conference with his Norwegian counterpart. The decision is tied to Denmark’s transition from F-16s to F-35s and affects the timeline for Ukrainian pilot instruction in the country.
The Danish Ministry of Defense stated that nearly 20 Ukrainian pilots will complete F-16 training before the program ends. In addition to pilot training, 65 Ukrainian maintenance and repair specialists are expected to be trained under the same initiative.
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Training for Ukrainian personnel began in August 2023 as part of a broader Western effort to support Ukraine’s air force modernization. Denmark is one of several countries in the aviation coalition providing support, alongside training activities in Romania.
Ukrainian Air Force F-16 (UAF)
Minister Poulsen noted that while Ukrainian pilots are also training in Romania, Denmark has not yet decided whether it will contribute to that effort. The ongoing Danish training is conducted as the Royal Danish Air Force prepares to phase out its remaining F-16s.
Denmark plans to deliver 19 F-16 fighters to Ukraine, all of which have undergone the Mid-Life Update (MLU) program. These aircraft are equipped with the AN/APG-66(V)2 radar, enhancing their operational capabilities.
Denmark’s decision comes amid negotiations between the Ukrainian government and Sweden for a deal to supply 100 to 150 Saab Gripen E fighter jets starting in 2026.