The rearmament process of the 571st Squadron began in May this year, when two F-16AM fighters were transferred from Norway to Romania. With the August delivery, Norway has now handed over 21 aircraft, while the remaining 11 are expected to be delivered by the end of this year.
Romania has purchased 32 F-16AM/BM fighters from Norway’s surplus stocks, adding to 17 previously acquired from Portugal. In total, the fleet will equip three fighter squadrons and ensure the protection of national airspace until the planned introduction of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II multirole combat aircraft.
The Ministry of National Defence underlined that the aircraft can be safely operated for at least ten years, providing continuity in air defence capabilities. “The acquisition of the Norwegian combat aircraft represents, in fact, a transfer of capabilities between two NATO allied states,” the ministry stated.
Following the completion of deliveries from Norway, the Romanian Air Force will operate 49 F-16AM/BM Fighting Falcons. This number may increase further, as discussions are ongoing regarding the formal transfer of 18 aircraft stationed at the 86th Air Base, which currently belong to the Royal Netherlands Air Force.
These aircraft are part of the European F-16 Training Center (EFCT), a multinational pilot training facility for which a letter of intent was signed in June this year. The expansion of Romania’s fleet would enhance both operational capacity and training infrastructure within NATO’s eastern flank.
