Our Dutch partners are highly active on the Eastern Flank, not only in the Baltic region, where they are part of NATO’s Battle Group in Lithuania (led by Germany), but also in Romania. Immediately following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Netherlands Armed Forces deployed troops to Romania as part of the France-led NATO Battle Group here and continue to contribute to the modernization of Romania’s military.
Moreover, the Netherlands relocated an F-16 Training Center from the United States to Fetesti, Romania in record time. As a result, Romania now hosts the only F-16 training center in Europe.
The first group of Romanian pilots trained in F-16 Center in Fetesti has already graduated from the program, and currently, a new group—consisting of both Romanian and Ukrainian pilots—is undergoing training, as confirmed by Romania’s Ministry of National Defense (MApN).
This center was transferred from Tucson, Arizona, USA, by the Dutch side. Romania provides the logistics, while Lockheed Martin handles the instruction.
The Dutch have also deployed 18 F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft to the 86th Air Base in Borcea, which are being used as part of the Training Center.
And now, truly big news
Dutch F-16 Fighting Falcon. Photo: the Netherlands MoD
Sources familiar with the matter told DefenseRomania the Netherlands will permanently transfer the F-16s from the Training Center to Romania. These jets will remain part of the transition program to F-16s.
While the exact details of the transfer are not yet known and are subject to ongoing negotiations between the two countries, the transfer is expected to take place sometime this year.
Furthermore, Romania and the Netherlands signed a letter of intent last year, paving the way for this transfer. The Dutch partners’ goal is to enhance the Romanian Air Force’s capabilities while simultaneously supporting Ukraine by training its fighter pilots on F-16s.
Fourth squadron
The first Romanian pilot in the F-16 Training Center flew a Dutch F-16, assisted by Lockheed Martin instructors. Photo: Romanian Minister of Defense, Angel Tîlvăr
Romania operates two F-16 squadrons, is in the process of building a third one, and the aircraft to be transferred by the Netherlands will form a fourth squadron, for training purposes.
Having a dedicated training F-16 squadron means pilots can transition more smoothly to operational units, reducing the strain on combat-ready squadrons.
An increased number of operational F-16s would enhance ROAF’s overall readiness and flexibility, especially in a crisis.
At present, the operational 53rd Fighter Squadron, based at the 86th Air Base in Borcea, consists of 17 F-16s purchased from Portugal several years ago.
Two additional squadrons are being formed under an ongoing contract with Norway, from which Romania acquired 32 more aircraft.
So far, 16 of these have been delivered, forming the 48th Squadron, stationed at the 71st Air Base “General Emanoil Ionescu” in Câmpia Turzii. The remaining 16 aircraft, set to be delivered this year, will form the third squadron.
These 32 aircraft were purchased at a very competitive price of 388 million euros to facilitate Romania’s transition to F-35s. They are F-16 AM/BM models in the M6.5.2 configuration, and the contract includes spare engines and logistical support.
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