In Canada, Ukrainian Pilots Prepare to Fly Gripen Fighter Jets

Ukrainian military pilots are undergoing training at the International Pilot Training School in Canada to eventually fly fighter jets, including the Gripen and F-16.

This was announced by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after a meeting with Ukrainian pilots.

According to him, this training is part of the preparation of a new generation of pilots who are expected to strengthen Ukraine’s combat aviation.

“The pilots are training to be ready to fly modern fighter jets, including the F-16 and Gripen, and to strengthen Ukraine’s combat aviation,” the president noted.

Zelensky thanked Canada, the instructors, and the training center for training Ukrainian military personnel.

The president had previously announced that 21 Ukrainian pilots are currently undergoing training in Canada.

Photos from the meeting released by the Office of the President show that the Ukrainians are conducting training flights on L-39 aircraft and using modern simulators for Western fighter jets.

Canada allocated up to 389 million Canadian dollars for the training of Ukrainian aviation personnel between 2024 and 2029.

The program includes, in particular, the Fighter Lead-In Training phase, during which pilots master Western procedures, tactics, and skills necessary for their subsequent transition to modern Western fighter jets, specifically the F-16.

The first Ukrainian service members arrived in Canada for training in September 2024. The training includes not only pilots but also specialists in the maintenance and operation of aviation equipment, which is necessary for the future operation of the aircraft.

As part of the program, Canada also provides access to simulators and other training resources. In particular, Ukrainian military personnel can use F-16 simulators to practice flight and tactical scenarios without using actual aircraft.

As a reminder, back in December of last year, Ukraine and Sweden discussed the start of training for Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel for Gripen fighter jets.