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Latest cohort of Ukrainian fighter jet pilots complete EFT

Babcock joined the latest cohort of Ukrainian fighter jet pilots last week at a graduation ceremony marking the completion of their Elementary Flying Training (EFT).

Image courtesy Babcock / MoD Crown Copyright 2024

Babcock continue providing vital support to the Ukrainian Air Force. Aircraft availability is crucial to military operations and Babcock team is by the Royal Air Force’s side, ensuring the UK’s best flying instructors have everything they need to train Ukraine’s next generation of fast-jet pilots.

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The graduation ceremony marked the completion of the Elementary Flying Training (EFT) phase of the programme for trainee Ukrainian pilots who are preparing to fly F-16 fighter jets. With 24 pilots having gone through the training to date, this was the third ceremony of its kind this year.

This intense training, under the guidance and world-leading expertise of RAF instructors, includes basic flying, ground school and language training in preparation for protecting Ukraine’s skies.

Babcock supply the Grob Tutor aircraft, including all the technical and operational support functions, ensuring aircraft availability is 100%.

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This is a key UK contribution to the Air Capability Coalition, which is helping build an air force of modern fighter jets to form the cornerstone of Ukraine’s armed forces.

Also, as a capability partner, Babcock is providing critical support for Ukraine’s military operations across all domains.

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