Romania Enters the F-35 League: A New Era in Global Defense!

The Government of Romania has revealed today its strategy to procure 32 Lockheed Martin 5th Generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft by endorsing a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) through a Foreign Military Sale from the U.S. government. This decision marks a crucial milestone in Romania’s defense blueprint and its commitment to maintaining a robust and advanced military presence.

“We are thrilled to welcome Romania into the F-35 program,” expressed Lt. Gen Mike Schmidt, director and program executive officer of the F-35 Joint Program Office. “The integration of the F-35 Lightning II jets within the Romanian Air Force will significantly enhance NATO’s deterrence capabilities by providing unparalleled strategic, operational, and tactical advantages. The F-35 Joint Program Office is dedicated to cultivating a strong partnership with Romania, ensuring a seamless transition and offering extensive assistance for their pilots and maintainers as we advance together in this pivotal project.”

The F-35 is essential in 21st Century Security® by deterring threats and disrupting adversaries’ tactics. Its mere presence boosts the security of nations that utilize it and safeguards freedom worldwide.

“For nearly three decades, Romania and Lockheed Martin have acted as defense and security partners,” noted Bridget Lauderdale, vice president and general manager, F-35 Lightning II Program, Lockheed Martin. “The procurement of the F-35 further strengthens Romania’s national defense and deterrent ability.”

“The increasing deployment of the F-35 throughout Europe represents alliance-centered deterrence and lays the foundation for NATO and allied nations’ next-generation air power capabilities,” asserted Mara Motherway, vice president, Strategy and Business Development, Lockheed Martin.

The F-35 offers the most cost-efficient solution for Romania, combining outstanding operational capabilities with a sustainable and effective global support system. This alliance heralds technological advancements, reinforcing Romania’s position in the global defense landscape. It also represents a significant leap in defense technology and international collaboration.

The Romanian Air Force’s F-35s will seamlessly integrate with the current F-16 fleets, enhancing the unique, formidable attributes of each aircraft and establishing a fortified defense stance. Recently, Lockheed Martin, along with the governments of Romania and the Netherlands, launched the European F-16 Training Center (EFTC) in Romania. The synergies at the EFTC provide tailored training at a rapid pace, ensuring Romanian pilots are fully prepared to execute their missions safely and effectively.

The F-35 stands as the most advanced, connected fighter aircraft worldwide, offering unrivaled 5th Generation capabilities and reinforcing allied deterrence for the U.S. and its partners. To date, 20 nations globally have selected the F-35 for its enhanced, interconnected functionalities to bolster 21st Century Security®, strengthen international collaborations, and ignite economic growth. Over 1,000 F-35s are currently operational around the globe, accumulating more than 940,000 flight hours. F-35s operate from 33 bases worldwide, with 10 countries utilizing them on home soil. As adversaries evolve and legacy aircraft age, the F-35 is essential for maintaining air superiority for decades ahead.