Test flights on airplanes are impossible without permission from Washington.
US authorities do not allow Ukrainian pilots to start training on fighter jets F-16 even despite the fact that several European countries are ready to transfer these aircraft to Ukraine.
This is reported The New York Times citing own sources.
It is noted that without US permission, European countries can acquaint Ukrainian pilots with the technical language and conduct tactical lessons on the use of the F-16. The publication notes that until Washington gives consent to test flights, they will not take place.
The source of the publication says that the White House opposes the supply of F-16s because this type of modern fighter is too expensive. Allegedly, due to the transfer of aircraft, a very large part of the budget can go to support Ukraine.
In addition, the Joe Biden administration fears that American secret technology, in particular the radar installed in the F-16, could fall into the hands of the enemy. That is why the United States administration intends to concentrate on the supply of other weapons. However, according to the official, Washington may give permission for the re-export of the fighter to other countries.
Polish President Andrzej Duda said that Warsaw is ready to systematically provide Ukraine with MiG-29 aircraft. However, the country does not have enough F-16 fighter jets to hand over more of them. However, Warsaw is ready to support the process of training Ukrainian pilots on modern F-16 aircraft.
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2023-05-18 05:36:34
