Three more F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft purchased by Romania from the Kingdom of Norway landed on Friday, in the 71st “General Emanoil Ionescu” Air Base, from Câmpia Turzii, in order to equip the 48th Fighter Squadron, MApN announces.
“The purchase of the new batch of F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft and the related package of goods and services will ensure the increase of Romania’s security by executing the defense of the national/NATO airspace, in peacetime and in crisis situations, through the Permanent Combat Service – Police Air Force (SLP-PA), under NATO command,” says a press release.
“Through the gradual arrival, throughout this year and the next, of the 32 multi-role F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, which will equip two more squadrons of the Air Force, Romania is strengthening its air defense capabilities at a level adapted to security challenges from the region. These aircraft will play an important role in maintaining a credible allied defense posture and deterring any aggression on the eastern flank and, just as importantly, will ensure the transition of our air force into the 5th generation era – the endowment of F-35 aircraft,” said the Minister of National Defense, Angel Tîlvăr.
This is the second series of three F-16 aircraft purchased by Romania from the Kingdom of Norway and the related package of goods and services, the first being received at the end of November 2023, in the 86th Air Base “Lieutenant Aviator Gheorghe Mociorniță” from Borcea.
In November 2022, Romania signed the contract for the purchase of 32 F-16 aircraft in the M6.5.2 configuration, spare engines and logistical support from the Government of the Kingdom of Norway.