Ukrainian pilots have begun flying F-16 aircraft produced by the US, Zelensky reports

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukrainian pilots have begun flying F-16.

This confirms the long-awaited arrival of US-made fighter aircraft, after more than 29 months of Russia's invasion of Ukrainian lands.

Ukrainian leader announced the use of F-16, as he met with military pilots at an air base surrounded by two aircraft, with two others flying above, reports The Guardian, Klonkosova.tv.

“F-16 are in Ukraine. We did it. I am proud of our boys who are owning these planes and are already starting to use them for our country”, Zelensky said at a location that authorities urged journalists not to reveal for security reasons.

The arrival of planes is a historic moment for Ukraine after many months of waiting, although it remains unclear how available and how much impact they will have on the growth of air defence and the field of battle.

Russia has targeted bases it can host and has pledged to tear them down. The F-16s were on Ukraine's list of wishes for a long time.

Speaking to reporters on an airline track, Zelensky said Ukraine still did not have enough pilots trained to use F-16.

The positive thing is that we expect an extra F-16... many guys are now training”, he said.