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First two Slovak Air Force pilots return to Slovakia after completing F-16 conversion training in U.S.

Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic

05.10.2023

The first two Slovak Air Force pilots completed their conversion training on the F-16 Block 70 fighter jets in the U.S. at the end of this summer. After returning to Slovakia, they will now assist the Fighter Squadron (F SQN) at Sliač Air Base in the process of converting to F-16 operations. According to the current agreement, F-16s will be gradually delivered into service with the Slovak Air Force, starting form the second quarter of next year.

In a statement, Defence Minister Martin Sklenár said: "I am delighted to congratulate both pilots on their successful completion of a highly demanding training process. In addition to the state-of-the-art fighter jets and their weapon systems, well-trained personnel are instrumental to the successful and effective conduct of air operations. I believe the pilots will now fully apply the acquired knowledge and skills to the conversion training of additional flying personnel and the reorganisation of the Fighter Squadron at Sliač Air Base."

The first Slovak Air Force pilot started the F-16 Pilot Training Programme (PTP) in 2019 and completed it with his Flight Lead Upgrade (FLUG) Qualification and Basic Mission Qualification (BMQ). He is expected to attend the F-16 Instructor Pilot Course in the U.S. at an as yet unspecified date. The other Slovak Air Force F-16 pilot began his training in 2021 and finished it with his Wingman Qualification (WGMQ) and Basic Mission Qualification (BMQ). The pilots will maintain their qualifications to fly with regular test flights until the arrival of F-16s in Slovakia.