Mastering the Skies: Ukrainian Pilot Embraces the F-16 Jet's Versatility
Meet 'Moonfish', the Ukrainian pilot defying all odds to master the F-16 jet in just six months With the skills of a Swiss Army knife, he's racing against time to become a top-notch fighter pilot in record time
The Ukrainian pilot, known by his call sign "Moonfish," is currently undergoing training to operate the F-16 fighter jet, a United States-designed aircraft. Speaking with CNN through Zoom, Moonfish revealed that he is currently in his second month of training at an undisclosed location.
"The F-16 is akin to a Swiss Army knife," stated Moonfish, preferring to reveal his call sign due to operational security concerns. "It is an exceptional weapon capable of executing a wide range of missions."
The F-16 possesses the ability to offer aerial protection for troops, engage in ground target assaults, counter adversary aircraft, and intercept missiles.
Due to Ukraine's ongoing war with Russia, the training must be condensed, according to Moonfish. He mentioned that they would have had ample time to thoroughly examine the jet during peaceful times, but that is not the case now. Nonetheless, he stated that there is sufficient time to acquire the essential capabilities required by Ukraine.
After months of lobbying, Kyiv successfully persuaded the US to approve the transfer of fourth-generation fighter jets to Ukraine in August. However, the planes are not expected to be received until early next year, and it is essential for pilots and ground crews to undergo formal training in order to operate the jets proficiently.
Even after over 20 months since Russia's complete invasion, Ukraine continues to lack air superiority, with Russia maintaining control over the airspace. Consequently, Ukrainian troops have been engaged in a relentless counteroffensive without the vital air support that their leaders argue is necessary.
"Even if the war were to end tomorrow, we all recognize that it would merely signal a temporary lull before the next cycle," remarked Moonfish. "Our objective must be to establish a formidable air force equipped with state-of-the-art Western aircraft and highly skilled personnel. This will serve as the strongest deterrent to prevent a repeat of the full-scale invasion by Russia on 24 February last year."
According to Yurii Ihnat, the spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force Command, a six-month timeframe is deemed sufficient to train pilots who can effectively support ground troops and assist in achieving air supremacy against Russia.
On June 14, 2021, as part of the "African Lion" military exercise, a US Air Force F-16 fighter jet gracefully touches down at an airbase in Ben Guerir, situated approximately 58 kilometers (36 miles) north of Marrakesh.
Ukraine requires new fighters to effectively address yet another set of threats: Russian missiles and drones. During the previous winter, Moscow launched an extensive campaign to incapacitate Ukraine's energy infrastructure by targeting power plants and causing electricity shutdowns. As the winter season approaches, there are considerable concerns that Russian missiles and drones will once again cause severe destruction.
According to Mykola Oleshchuk, the commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, around 75% of cruise missiles and attack drones are successfully destroyed by Ukrainian air defenses. However, the remaining weapons manage to reach their intended targets. Oleshchuk emphasized the urgent need for additional air-defense systems and modern aircraft in order to protect the country and gain air superiority over the occupied territories.
Ukraine's stockpile of Soviet-era jets is deteriorating, as certain aircraft in the Air Force's fleet are approximately twice as old as their pilots.
"While we maintain these jets in a satisfactory condition, it is crucial to recognize the life-threatening nature of missions carried out by our pilots in outdated Soviet equipment," Oleshchuk emphasized. "Consequently, we are tragically losing our finest pilots."
Troops on the ground are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the F-16. According to "Mose," the deputy commander of the Third Separate Assault Brigade, having F-16s in the air would greatly enhance the infantry's ability to execute their missions more effectively, thanks to the improved cover provided by the aircraft.
Destruction caused by a Russian attack at one of DTEK's electricity facilities
DTEK
Ukraine readies itself for new Russian assaults on energy ahead of winter, demonstrating complete preparedness
"In offensive operations and advances, these aircraft hold immense significance for the infantry," he expressed. "By obtaining air superiority and providing assistance to the advancing infantry, the jets will prove instrumental. An F-16 possesses the capability to target enemy ground assets and annihilate or hinder enemy supply lines."
Moonfish, who formerly led a squadron consisting of Soviet-designed MiG-29 fighters, stated that he had transitioned from the simulator to the actual aircraft cockpit. He mentioned that adjusting to the new environment is somewhat challenging, particularly due to the tight space within the cockpit.
The Ukrainian pilot noted that, setting ergonomics aside, the aircraft possessed advanced avionics while maintaining a user-friendly control and interface system. He also emphasized that the F-16 demonstrated exceptional maneuverability that encouraged a more aggressive piloting style.
According to Moonfish, if the F-16s were currently in Ukraine, their primary objective would be to defend against Russian drone and missile attacks.
Moonfish stated that the F-16's software is constantly being upgraded, whereas the MiG-29 and Su-27, which were designed by the Soviets, still utilize software from the 1980s when these planes were initially developed. During that era, drones were only found in science fiction literature, and they were not regarded as a significant threat that could be eliminated by fighter aircraft.
On September 1, 2023, a Ukrainian self-propelled artillery system is seen in action as it fires towards the Russian positions at the front line near Bakhmut, Donetsk region, Ukraine. The intensity of the conflict is captured in this powerful image. (AP Photo/Libkos)
Libkos/AP
Some of the main selection criteria for training on the long-awaited jets were English language proficiency, experience and age. Because of the ongoing war, the program is intensive.
Moonfish had always harbored a deep desire to soar through the skies in an F-16. This dream, however, was not exclusive to him alone. It was shared by his close friend and comrade Andriy Pilshchikov, an esteemed Ukrainian pilot known by his call sign "Juice."
Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Pilshchikov lost his life in a plane crash while on a combat mission in August. Interestingly, he had played a crucial role in advocating for the transfer of F-16s from the US to Ukraine.
Moonfish learned about his friend's demise while he was away. Unfortunately, he couldn't be present at the funeral or bid farewell. Nonetheless, he remains determined to carry on with the F-16 training, both in honor of Pilshchikov and out of loyalty to his comrades.
"Andriy was a brilliant visionary and the driving force behind everything," Moonfish expressed. "I feel a deep sense of obligation towards him to ensure the delivery of these aircraft."
