Kateryna Chornovol23:07, 16.02.26

The unit plays a key role in protecting the skies over the Kyiv region, which is constantly subject to Russian attacks.

Ukraine has created an F-16 squadron , comprising Ukrainian, American, and Dutch pilots. They help defend the skies against Russian missiles and drones.

This was reported by the French intelligence publication Intelligence Online . According to journalists, the squadron was formed in recent weeks in strict secrecy to operate the new F-16s. The unit plays a key role in protecting the skies over the Kyiv region, which is constantly subject to Russian air strikes.

The team included American pilots with extensive combat experience in Afghanistan. One of them recently participated in operations in the Middle East, after which he joined the defense of Ukraine.

The Netherlands has brought in pilots trained at elite European air combat schools, specialising in modern interception tactics and high-tech air warfare.

Intelligence Online clarifies: the Western veterans signed temporary contracts with rotations for six months (with possible extension). They do not hold official ranks within the Ukrainian structure.

What tasks do pilots perform?

The squadron intercepts Russian Kalibr and Kh-101 cruise missiles, as well as Geran-5 drones, on a daily basis. The F-16s are used for patrols, including night patrols, to maximize radar coverage and rapid response.

Western pilots’ greatest asset is their experience with high-tech equipment, such as the Snipe targeting and reconnaissance pods. The system allows them to see targets at great distances and track missiles and drones in darkness or cloud cover. Ukrainian pilots are mastering this, but veterans are accelerating the process.

It’s worth noting that as recently as 2023, the Ukrainian Air Force allowed foreigners with the required qualifications to serve as pilots or technicians, but nothing has been officially announced regarding foreign pilots.

(C)UNIAN 2026