F-16 pilots from the U.S. and the Netherlands have begun defending Ukraine’s skies – Intelligence Online

“In recent weeks, an F-16 squadron has been formed in Ukraine, which for the first time includes pilots from the United States and the Netherlands”, - reported on February 17 the Telegram channel “The Moscow Times”, citing the French publication specializing in intelligence work, Intelligence Online.

According to the outlet, the unit was formed under strict secrecy in order to ensure control of the new fighter jets. At present, the squadron’s mission is to protect the skies over the Kyiv oblast, which is regularly subjected to russian massive strikes.

“Among the American pilots who arrived in Ukraine are combat veterans from Afghanistan and the Middle East. From the Netherlands, pilots trained at elite European aviation schools specializing in modern tactical air combat methods and high-tech aerial operations have been involved. As Intelligence Online clarifies, the foreign pilots signed temporary contracts with the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), which suppose rotation every six months and the possibility of extension. At the same time, they do not hold official military ranks in the Ukrainian forces and are not included in public lists”, - the report says.