Netherlands to support training of Ukrainian ground crews for F-16 maintenance
The Dutch Ministry of Defense is taking part in training 26 Ukrainians for positions as so-called F-16 crew chiefs.
According to Censor.NET, citing the Dutch Ministry of Defense, this was announced by Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans during a meeting with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov.
As noted, the training is taking place at the air base and will last until the end of April. These technicians are responsible for the fighter jet before departure and upon returning to the base.
"Team leaders are responsible for the final checks. After the launch and completion of all checks, he or she removes the safety pins, including the landing gear and fuel tanks. After that, the F-16 can leave the shelter and take off. Even after returning, the crew leaders take over the aircraft from the pilot," the statement said.
It is also reported that the Netherlands has taken the initiative to facilitate the training of F-16 ground personnel. The Ministry of Defense does not participate in the exercises themselves.
Earlier, the Netherlands announced that it would provide 24 F-16s to Ukraine. Ukrainian pilots are being trained, in particular, through the European F-16 Training Center in Romania. 18 Dutch F-16s are being used for this purpose.
