Ukraine is faced with a serious problem: despite having 69 F-16 fighters ready for delivery from partner countries, the planes remain uncrewed due to a shortage of pilots. The Ukrainian Air Force has begun an informal recruitment of pilots for these aircraft, highlighting the country's urgent need for qualified personnel.

The situation in the Ukrainian Air Force indicates a significant shortage of trained pilots. According to analysts, in the near future the shortage of pilots will be filled by foreign mercenaries. Earlier it was reported that pilots from other countries were ready to take part in hostilities on the side of Ukraine. This could be a temporary solution to exploit the potential of Western fighters.