Europe’s airpower is evolving, and Romania is playing a key role. With operational F-16 squadrons and a growing pipeline of trained pilots supported by Lockheed Martin, Romania is bolstering NATO’s eastern flank and expanding cooperation across the Black Sea.

A Strategic Shift

On November 3, the Netherlands and Romania signed an agreement transferring 18 Dutch F-16s from the 86th Air Base Borcea in Fetești to Romanian authorities. The move underscores Romania’s leadership through the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC), now a hub for multinational pilot training.

Minister of National Defence Liviu-Ionuț Moșteanu said, “The EFTC has turned our country into a European hub for all nations that fly the F-16. By continuing the center’s activity, Romania strengthens its role in NATO and contributes to allied defense and security.”

Advancing Allied Readiness

The EFTC trains allied pilots on F-16s through live and simulated missions that mirror real NATO operations, building interoperability and mission-ready skills.

Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans called the EFTC “a textbook example of successful cooperation,” highlighting training for Romanian and Ukrainian pilots and the valuable new role of former Dutch F-16s.

Built on Partnership

On the flight line, Lockheed Martin and industry partners work alongside Romanian and Dutch teams to prepare aircraft, brief pilots, and analyze missions, ensuring EFTC graduates are ready for operational deployments.

Enduring Impact

Romanian and allied F-16s continue to operate together across Europe, demonstrating the strength of shared training, trust, and purpose. NATO footage shows these jets flying shoulder to shoulder, embodying multinational cooperation in defense of allied airspace.