Germany says it may back "coalition of fighters" for Ukraine

German Air Force Commander Ingo Gerhartz has stated that Germany might join the "fighter jet coalition" for Ukraine, despite not having F-16s, which Kyiv had requested.

"Nations that do not have F-16s can provide more marginal support here, such as infrastructure or training," European Pravda quotes Gerhartz as saying in an interview with Tagesspiegel.

According to him, German Eurofighter aircraft could easily be adapted for F-16s, among other armaments.

He added that the decision on Germany's potential participation in the "fighter jet coalition" and its scope depends on politicians.

"Many countries have just decommissioned their machines and could send them to Ukraine promptly," Gerhartz said.

On May 24, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated that his country was considering options to support a coalition of countries to train Ukrainian pilots in operating F-16 fighters. However, he mentioned that Berlin's possible contribution could be limited.

Last week, the United Kingdom announced the establishment of an international coalition of countries aimed at training Ukrainian pilots on fourth-generation fighters, including F-16s. The coalition already includes the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, the United States, and Portugal.

Acting Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that Ukrainian pilots could begin training on F-16s in July.