The outlet highlighted the unit was created under strict secrecy to operate the new fighters. It is expected to play a prominent role in strengthening air defense, specifically over Kyiv Oblast, which suffers regular Russian strikes.
The report wrote involved Western aviators were working on temporary 6-month rotation contracts and hold no official positions in public staff rosters.
Mission & Value
Tasks: Patrols and interception of aerial targets (cruise missiles and attack UAVs)
Advantage: Sources assessed the key practical value of the foreign pilots is their experience with modern F-16 avionics.
Ukraine's Air Force and government were yet to confirm creation of an "international squadron" or foreign pilots participation in combat missions.