Training of Ukrainian technicians for F-16 maintenance in Belgium in full swing
The maintenance hangars house several F-16s from the coalition of 13 countries, including the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Luxembourg and Belgium. The aircraft receive thorough maintenance before they are delivered to Ukraine. There are currently no Belgian F-16s awaiting the delivery of the successor F-35A to Belgium.
“The extent of your commitment extends beyond our borders, to Ukraine, where your expertise is put directly at the service of international peace and security,” Ludivine Dedonder (PS) praised the site’s 400 employees. “In the current climate, where every aircraft counts and every flight hour is precious, your role in maintaining the F-16s and strengthening their structure is crucial.”
The collaboration between Sabena Engineering (formerly Sabca), Patria Belgium Engine Center and Defense dates back 4 years ago and took a new turn during the Russian invasion of Ukraine with, in the past few months, the training of Ukrainian technicians. The assignment consists of theoretical training on training aircraft, followed by practical training on certain fighter aircraft supplied by coalition countries. Patria Belgium Engineering Center (located in Herstal) is responsible for training on aircraft engines, while Sabena Engineering provides its expertise in aircraft structure.
Despite the language barrier that sometimes occurs, the instructors speak of a great motivation among Ukrainian technicians to overcome this problem with the help of interpreters, images or demonstrations.
Minister Dedonder assured that Belgium and other European countries will ensure the maintenance of the F-16s once they have been delivered to Kiev. Our country also trains Ukrainian pilots at the Danish air base at Skrydstrup to maintain the aircraft.
