DefenseThe Netherlands has completed the delivery of 18 F-16 fighter jets to Romania
The Netherlands completed delivery of 18 F-16 fighter aircraft to Romania on November 3. The transfer was finalized at the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Romania.
Romania sought to strengthen its air defense capability amid regional security concerns. The transfer also supports joint pilot training for Romanian and Ukrainian personnel.
“The training center is a textbook example of successful collaboration. We are collaborating with Romania and Lockheed Martin in a unique way to train Romanian and Ukrainian pilots,” Dutch Defense Minister Brekelmans stated.
The first five F-16s entered use at the EFTC in November 2023 following a Dutch initiative. Ukrainian pilots began training at the facility in September 2024.
Romania had operated the F-16 for only a short period before this delivery, aiming to reinforce its airspace protection against Russian aggression.
The Netherlands has transitioned its own air force to the F-35, enabling the transfer of surplus F-16s. In addition to the Romanian transfer, the Netherlands donated 24 F-16s to Ukraine, which are currently deployed in response to Russian aerial attacks.
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