Attendees, including military families and aviation enthusiasts, explored a wide range of static displays and interactive exhibits throughout the day. U.S. Soldiers engaged directly with the public by demonstrating the AN/TWQ-1 Avenger remote control unit and allowing guests to try on the HGU-56/P Army aviator helmet.
“Events like this air show are a great opportunity for us to talk with the Romanians both about what our capabilities are and how we interface with them while we are out here, while also learning about their culture and customs,” said Captain Abby Wingfield, Commander of Charlie Company, 3-501st Assault Helicopter Battalion, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division.
The air show featured over four hours of live aerial demonstrations, highlighting more than 10 types of military and civilian aircraft. U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook and HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters performed side-by-side with Romanian IAR 330 Puma SOCAT helicopters, demonstrating tactical flight manoeuvres and interoperability.
The HH-60M Black Hawk crew conducted a live hoist demonstration to display their medical evacuation training. Such operations are critical for combat readiness, enabling swift extraction of wounded personnel from dangerous or restricted areas.
“Our training out here has been impactful, both for us and partner nations, because we get to see how different countries operate…and we get to see how in a combined arms operation we would be able to work with different nations despite language barriers and overcoming that so we can create TTPs (tactics, techniques, and procedures) to be more successful in the future,” Wingfield added.
As their rotation in Romania continues, the 1st Armored Division and 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) remain focused on strengthening NATO’s Eastern Flank. The Black Sea Air Show underscored the United States’ commitment to regional security, alliance cohesion, and building lasting ties with local communities.
Through every static display and aerial performance, U.S., Romanian, and German forces demonstrated a shared ability to enhance interoperability and maintain a collective presence in the Black Sea region.
