Ukraine's Battle for F-16s: Easy to Fly, Game Changer, but Approval Takes Time

US Air Force Capt. David "Spicy" Brown, an F-16 pilot, said that the American-made jets sought by Ukraine are "incredibly easy to fly," but training takes about a year for American military pilots. Ukraine has been relying on older aircraft such as Russian-made MiG29 and Sukhoi jets, but F-16s have newer technology and targeting capabilities. The F-16s are also versatile and sustainable, making them a better long-term option. However, the F-16s won't be available in time to help Ukraine's counteroffensive, and Russia has been able to fly aircraft like attack helicopters and bombers in the south where Ukraine is trying to retake ground.