American veteran pilots can patrol the skies over Ukraine. From a legal point of view, this is not prohibited, but diplomatic efforts are needed so that American veteran pilots can join the Ukrainian army and help repel Russian aggression, writes Focus.
This was commented on by retired US Air Force Lieutenant General David Deptula in an interview with Radio NV.
When asked whether there are legal or practical obstacles for American veteran pilots who want to join the Ukrainian Air Force, the American general replied:
"There is no direct legal prohibition that would prevent American pilots - those who are no longer on active duty - from helping Ukraine. We are already seeing the same thing with many veterans of the US Army (in the Foreign Legion of Ukraine), he notes.
However, according to David Deptula, there are practical and political obstacles. He explains that in order to fly F-16s in combat, pilots must be fully integrated into the command and control system, the rules of engagement, and the overall plan of the air campaign. For this, it is necessary to create appropriate diplomatic channels and agreements.
"Experienced US pilots can help Ukraine, in particular in the role of instructors or advisers, as well as directly in combat missions, if they operate under Ukrainian command. But this requires political will on both sides," he adds.
The general also emphasizes that Ukrainian air defense is largely dependent on Western systems, and American pilots have unique experience in using them as effectively as possible. Therefore, their contribution can be immediate and significant.
He explains that in order to increase the effectiveness of the F-16, Ukraine must be provided with a full range of capabilities that provide an advantage over Western air forces. These include modern radar stations, air-to-air missiles such as the AIM-120D or Meteor to combat Russian fighters at a distance, electronic warfare equipment and the like. The most important thing in this case is integration into the command, control and intelligence network.
"The challenge for Ukraine now is not just to fly, but to survive and win in one of the most dangerous airspaces in the world. "With proper modernization and maintenance, the F-16 will be able to provide air superiority, support ground forces, and intercept cruise and ballistic missiles," he said.
The general added that this requires continued investment and partnership, not just deliveries. And more F-16s.