The operation involved Greek and Turkish F-16 Fighting Falcons, Italian Eurofighter 2000 jets, and support from a French tanker aircraft. Additionally, Surface-Based Air and Missile Defence (SBAMD) systems from both France and Romania took part, with coordination led by the Romanian Control and Reporting Centre.
“This activity demonstrated how NATO air and ground-based units are capable of conducting complex defensive operations,” NATO stated, underlining the importance of such exercises. The mission allowed Allied Air and SBAMD units to integrate more closely within NATO’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) architecture.
The IAMD mission, a continuous defensive component of NATO’s Joint Air Power, is essential in ensuring stability and the security of Alliance airspace. It is designed to operate in peacetime, crisis, and conflict using a comprehensive 360-degree approach to counter a wide spectrum of threats.
General James Hecker, Commander of Allied Air Command, previously identified Integrated Air and Missile Defence as a key priority during his tenure. “Planning and conducting these kind of event enhance interoperability and multi-domain integration in order to achieve air superiority, which is mandatory,” NATO emphasised.
The FDO over Romania not only strengthened operational readiness but also reinforced Allied unity and capability. By exercising together, NATO forces ensure they remain ready to defend Alliance territory whenever required.
