American veteran pilots in Ukrainian skies: more Russian planes will be shot down

[Starmix]

According to the report, legally, this is not prohibited, but diplomatic efforts are needed so that American veteran pilots can join the Ukrainian army and help repel Russian aggression. Retired US Air Force Lieutenant General David Deptula spoke about what exactly needs to be done in an interview with Ukrainian-American writer and US Air Force veteran Eliza Carlisle for NV radio. She asked him if there were any legal or practical barriers to American veteran pilots joining the Ukrainian Armed Forces, noting that there are already American veterans serving in the International Legion. He replied that there were no legal barriers to this."There is no direct legal prohibition that would prevent American pilots, those no longer on active duty, from helping Ukraine. We already see the same thing with many American ground force veterans," he said. However, there are practical and political obstacles, according to David Deptul. He explained that to fly F-16s in combat, pilots need to be fully integrated into the command and control system, the rules of engagement, and the overall air campaign plan. This requires the establishment of appropriate diplomatic channels and agreements.

The report said: "Experienced American 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 said. The general also emphasized that Ukrainian air defense relies heavily on Western systems, and American pilots have unique experience in using them most effectively. Therefore, their contribution can be immediate and significant. He explained that to increase the effectiveness of the F-16, Ukraine needs to be provided with a full range of capabilities that provide an advantage to Western air forces. This includes modern radar stations, air-to-air missiles like the AIM-120D or Meteor to combat Russian fighters at a distance, electronic warfare equipment, and the like. The most important thing here 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 support, the F-16 will be able to provide air superiority, support ground forces, and intercept cruise and ballistic missiles," he said.

Watch the report via the YouTube link.