F-16 manufacturer is ready to train Ukrainian pilots
The chief operating officer of Lockheed Martin, Frank St. John, said that the manufacturer of F-16 fighters is ready to help Ukrainian pilots in training and maintenance, if NATO countries agree to send these planes to help Ukraine.
This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the Voice of America.
"We are ready not only to fill the need for new F-16s, but also to provide any modifications to the F-16, as well as training, equipment and systems," St. John said.
He emphasized that the decision can be made only as a result of negotiations between Ukraine, the USA and other Western allies. Lockheed Martin, the Pentagon's largest defense contractor, is not directly involved in these negotiations.
St. John noted that the Ukrainian military demonstrated an "unbelievable ability to learn."
Lockheed weaponry, including the GMLRS guided missile salvo system and the Javelin missile, helped the UAF strengthen its battlefield positions.
According to St. John, the Ukrainians "very quickly mastered the use of these systems and use them with great efficiency, so I am absolutely sure that Ukrainian pilots will master the F-16 and will be able to fly them very effectively in a short time."
Although training and technical support will be conducted in any third country, Lockheed may in the long term consider establishing a base in or near Ukraine after the end of the war.
About 3,000 F-16 fighters are currently in active service around the world. Lockheed plans to increase aircraft production at a plant in Greenville, South Carolina. It is expected that in the next few years the plant will be able to produce up to four fighters every month.
